Kawhi Leonard Sidelined Indefinitely: Knee Issues Delay Start to 2024-25 Season

Leonard, who has not participated in preseason games or full-contact practices, remains without a timetable for his return. In a recent update on NBA Today, Youngmisuk stated that Leonard is "doubtful" for the Clippers’ opening game against the Phoenix Suns on October 23. The team is expected to prioritize Leonard’s long-term health, hoping to have him available later in the season rather than rushing him back.

Leonard’s knee problems have persisted since he tore his ACL in 2021. He missed the entire 2021-22 season, endured a meniscus tear during the 2023 postseason, and dealt with inflammation that sidelined him for the final games of the 2023-24 campaign. His injury also forced him to skip the 2024 Paris Olympics despite briefly attending Team USA’s training camp. Team USA’s executive director Grant Hill explained the decision was made in "Kawhi's and the Clippers' best interest."

Before being sidelined, Leonard had a strong 2023-24 season, earning his sixth career All-Star nod while averaging 23.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 3.6 assists in 68 games. He also set a career-high field goal percentage at 52.5%, along with 1.6 steals and 0.9 blocks per game. Unfortunately, the injury once again affected his postseason, where he managed just two appearances, averaging 12 points before being shut down.

Leonard’s absence creates challenges for the Clippers, especially after Paul George’s offseason trade to the Philadelphia 76ers. With Leonard sidelined indefinitely, the team will rely heavily on newly extended James Harden to spearhead the offense as they navigate a competitive Western Conference. Leonard’s long-term contract with the Clippers, signed in January, keeps him with the team through the 2026-27 season, making his recovery critical to their future. Kawhi Leonard will not be available for the beginning of the 2024-25 NBA season as he continues to recover from inflammation in his right knee, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania and Ohm Youngmisuk. The Los Angeles Clippers are expected to tread cautiously with their star forward, opting to prioritize his health for the later stages of the season.

Leonard, who hasn’t participated in preseason games or contact practices, is unlikely to play in the Clippers’ season opener against the Phoenix Suns on October 23. Team officials are reportedly focusing on managing his workload to avoid further setbacks after multiple seasons marred by injuries.

Leonard’s injury history is extensive. After tearing his ACL in 2021, he missed the entire 2021-22 season. In 2023, a meniscus tear cut his postseason short, followed by persistent knee inflammation that sidelined him for the final stretch of the 2023-24 season. Leonard also withdrew from Team USA's roster for the 2024 Paris Olympics despite attending a few training camp practices, with officials emphasizing that the decision was made with his and the Clippers' future in mind.

Before his latest injury, Leonard was in top form during the 2023-24 season, averaging 23.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 3.6 assists across 68 games. He also achieved career-best shooting numbers, converting 52.5% of his field goal attempts while adding 1.6 steals and 0.9 blocks per game. However, once again, his postseason contributions were limited, with Leonard appearing in just two playoff games, averaging 12 points before knee issues ended his run.

The Clippers face significant challenges with Leonard's absence. Following Paul George’s offseason trade to the Philadelphia 76ers, the team will lean heavily on James Harden, who signed a two-year extension, to lead the offense. As the Clippers compete in a tough Western Conference, their hopes rest on getting Leonard back on the court in time to make a meaningful playoff push. His three-year contract extension, signed in January, ties him to Los Angeles through the 2026-27 season, underscoring the importance of managing his health carefully.