Clippers’ Kawhi Leonard Out with Injury vs. Luka, Mavs in Game 1 of 2024 NBA Playoffs

Paul KasabianFeatured Columnist IIApril 21, 2024

Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images

Los Angeles Clippers star forward Kawhi Leonard has been ruled out for Game 1 against the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday with knee inflammation, according to The Athletic and Stadium’s Shams Charania.

Leonard has been dealing with inflammation to his right knee, which has been injured in the past due to a torn ACL and a torn meniscus.

ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported that there was “increasing doubt” Leonard would play Game 1 of the Clippers’ first-round series against the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday.

Head coach Ty Lue told reporters the day before the series start that Leonard was participating in shooting drills but didn’t go through contact.

The six-time All-Star and three-time All-NBA First Team member hasn’t played since March 31. The Clips notably went 4-4 down the stretch without Leonard, losing their last three regular season games.

Leonard is obviously an invaluable member of the Clippers, posting 23.7 points, 6.1 rebounds and 3.6 assists this season.

Without him, the onus is on Paul George, James Harden and Russell Westbrook to carry the offense, while Norman Powell, Terance Mann and Amir Coffey could be called upon more as well.