Los Angeles Clippers head coach Ty Lue has expressed unwavering confidence in star forward Kawhi Leonard’s readiness for the upcoming season, as the Clippers prepare to kick off their training camp on October 1 in Honolulu, Hawaii. Leonard has been battling persistent knee problems, which sidelined him for the critical final stretch of last season and kept him out of significant playoff matchups against the Dallas Mavericks.
"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, emphasizing his faith in Leonard's recovery and readiness to contribute once again. The star forward’s health is paramount for a Clippers team that faces a pivotal season ahead.
Kawhi Leonard's Road to Recovery
Leonard’s knee problems have been a cause for concern, particularly after inflammation restricted him from the final eight regular-season games last year. Yet, signs of recovery were evident as Leonard participated in a mini camp with Team USA in Las Vegas ahead of the Tokyo Olympics. However, despite his participation, Leonard was ultimately replaced by Boston Celtics guard Derrick White for the Olympic roster.
The decision to exclude Leonard from the Olympic team didn’t sit well with Clippers president Lawrence Frank, who believed the forward deserved more time to prove his fitness. "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 noted.
Frank’s sentiments echo the deep trust and understanding the Clippers’ management has in Leonard’s ability to return to full form. “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," Frank elaborated, highlighting the organization’s frustration and belief in their player’s readiness.
Challenges Ahead for the Clippers
The offseason has also brought significant changes to the Clippers’ roster. Paul George, one of the franchise’s cornerstones, departed for the Philadelphia 76ers in free agency. This move has undoubtedly left a void in the team’s structure, but it has also provided a fresh challenge and renewed motivation for the remaining players and coaching staff.
"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, underlining his determination to propel the team to success despite the roster changes.
Looking Forward: Training Camp in Honolulu
As the Clippers gear up for their training camp in Honolulu, all eyes will be on Leonard’s performance and fitness. The training camp will be a critical period to assess his progress and integrate any new strategies before the season begins. For Leonard, it is not just about proving his physical readiness but also reclaiming his position as one of the league’s elite players.
The Clippers have also marked October 23 on their calendar for another significant milestone—the inauguration of their new arena. In this game against the Phoenix Suns, Leonard’s presence will be crucial as the Clippers aim to make a statement early in the season.
The mix of a recovering star, a reshuffled roster, and new facilities all contribute to an intriguing and high-stakes season for the Clippers. Yet, with Leonard's expected return, the optimism surrounding the team remains palpable. The upcoming training camp will be the first real test, setting the stage for what could be a pivotal season for the Los Angeles Clippers.