Unsure before facing Minnesota for an adductor problem, Kawhi Leonard will only have spent one quarter on the floor of the Crypto.com Arena on Tuesday. The Clippers winger injured his back, leaving the bench, then the room. “The Klaw” had just played the entire first quarter for 6 points, 2 rebounds and 2 assists.
Los Angeles coach Tyronn Lue admitted in a press conference that Kawhi Leonard was already suffering from “ A few days“. “ He has back pain. We weren't sure if he could play this morning. He came to training, to treatment, he did what he had to do to try to play tonight, but that didn't let him down. »
Tyronn Lue clarified that he was not sure whether his player could accompany the Clippers for the two back-to-back trips Thursday and Friday evening to Chicago then New Orleans.
Kawhi Leonard but also James Harden in the infirmary?
The Californian franchise will undoubtedly be vigilant around the state of health of its star, one month before the end of the season. Kawhi Leonard had already been rested on Sunday in his team's defeat against Milwaukee. While the Clippers led by 13 points when the winger left on Tuesday, they ultimately lost 118-100 to the Wolves. Also absent on Sunday, Paul George was able to take his place.
Already deprived of Russell Westbrook (broken hand), the Clippers could therefore have to do without another member of their hard core, while the Western Conference podium is now three victories away.
James Harden could also be put on rest in the coming days, injured in the shoulder and back. “ We'll see tomorrow how I feel » has explained the leader.
