Kawhi Leonard was forced to sit out Game 4 of the Los Angeles Clippers’ first-round playoff series against the Dallas Mavericks due to right knee inflammation. The decision was made by the organization, with Clippers president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank announcing that Leonard’s surgically repaired knee was causing him pain and discomfort. Despite missing eight games during the regular season and Game 1 of the series, Leonard had returned for Games 2 and 3 before once again being sidelined due to inflammation.
Frank expressed uncertainty about when Leonard would be able to return, emphasizing the importance of Leonard being able to move freely and without restrictions before considering his comeback. While the Mavericks managed to secure a 2-1 lead in the series after winning both games that Leonard played in, Frank described the situation as “tricky” and acknowledged that Leonard might be out for more than just this series. This highlights the need for Leonard to demonstrate his full range of movement before being cleared to play.
The immediate focus for the Clippers remains on trying to overcome the Mavericks in the first round of the playoffs before contemplating any further challenges that may lie ahead.
