Los Angeles Clippers’ standout forward Kawhi Leonard is slated to come back from a knee injury for Game 2 of their first-round matchup against Luka Dončić and the Dallas Mavericks, as confirmed by head coach Ty Lue to reporters.

Leonard sat out Game 1 of the Los Angeles Clippers’ first-round playoff series against the Dallas Mavericks due to inflammation in his surgically repaired right knee, extending his absence to nine consecutive games dating back to the regular season.

Since March 31, Leonard has been sidelined, but Coach Lue mentioned that he has been engaging in shooting and movement drills during recent practices, suggesting a potential return to action.

When asked about the possibility of Leonard missing multiple games in the first round, Lue remained uncertain, emphasizing that Leonard’s progress is being monitored day by day.

This marks the second consecutive postseason that Leonard has faced injury setbacks, having missed the final three games of last year’s first-round series against the Phoenix Suns due to a torn meniscus. The Clippers have only experienced one full postseason with both Leonard and Paul George healthy, which occurred in 2020.

Despite his injury challenges, Leonard had an impressive season, appearing in 68 games, his most since the 2016-17 campaign with the San Antonio Spurs. He led the Clippers with averages of 23.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.6 steals per game. Additionally, Leonard secured the 12th and final roster spot on Team USA for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.

With Leonard’s return imminent, he will provide valuable support to George and James Harden in scoring against the Mavericks. In Game 1, George and Leonard combined for 50 points in a 109-97 victory.

The Clippers aim to seize a 2-0 lead as they take the court on Tuesday night.

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