As the Los Angeles Clippers gear up for the upcoming season, all eyes are on star forward Kawhi Leonard and his much-anticipated return. Head coach Ty Lue exudes confidence that Leonard will be ready to participate when the team kicks off its training camp on October 1 in Honolulu, Hawaii. Lue has remained in constant communication with the star forward and is optimistic about his progress.
"I speak to him all the time. He'll be ready for [Clippers] training camp. He's feeling good and I know he'll be ready for training camp," said Lue, reinforcing the hope and anticipation surrounding Leonard's comeback.
Knee Troubles and Playoff Absence
Leonard's health has been a point of concern since last season when knee problems sidelined him for the critical final eight regular-season games due to inflammation. His absence was deeply felt during significant playoff matchups against the Dallas Mavericks, leading to the Clippers' lower-than-expected performance.
Despite his determination, Leonard was kept out of the Tokyo Olympics. He had participated in a mini camp with Team USA in Las Vegas ahead of the games, signaling his willingness to compete on the international stage. Clippers president Lawrence Frank shared his disappointment over Leonard's exclusion from the Olympic team.
"It was USAB's call, and I was, quite frankly, very disappointed with the decision. Kawhi wanted to play. We wanted him to play. I was there the first two practices. He looked very good. Participated, was a full participant in everything that they did," Frank explained.
Team Adjustments
Beyond Leonard's personal challenges, the Clippers have faced team roster changes that only add to the uncertainty of the forthcoming season. A significant development was Paul George leaving the Clippers for the Philadelphia 76ers during free agency. This departure shook the team's dynamic, which Lue acknowledges but also views as a motivational boost.
"When you lose a guy of Paul George's stature, instantly people [think] oh, they can't win or they're not going to be competitive. But that just challenges me even more. OK, people are counting us out or people don't think we're going to be good. That right there just gives me an extra dose of [motivation]," Lue asserted, emphasizing resilience and determination.
Looking Forward
Despite the hurdles, the Clippers are eagerly preparing for their training camp in Hawaii, a crucial period to recalibrate and set the tone for the season. The team is scheduled to inaugurate their new arena on October 23 in a face-off against the Phoenix Suns, marking a new chapter in Clippers history. This milestone adds an extra layer of excitement for fans and players alike, paving the way for what could be a season of redemption.
Lawrence Frank remains positive about Leonard’s recovery and readiness for the upcoming challenges. "I expressed to them, I really wish that they would have given Kawhi more time. We have the benefit of having been around Kawhi for five years to see his body and see where he's at. So, he looked good to me," he stated, underscoring the belief in Leonard's capabilities and the importance of his presence on the court.
As October approaches, the Clippers are set to face a season filled with potential and uncertainty. The combination of Leonard’s recovery, roster changes, and the excitement of a new arena will test the team’s resilience and synergy. Yet, under the guidance of Ty Lue and with the return of Kawhi Leonard, fans have every reason to stay hopeful for a competitive and thrilling season ahead.