Kawhi Leonard sits out Clippers finale as team prepares for play-in tournament
Nov 30, 2023; San Francisco, California, USA; Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) warms up before the game against the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
The LA Clippers made the strategic decision to rest Kawhi Leonard for their regular-season finale against the Golden State Warriors on Sunday night, as the team looks ahead to the play-in tournament. Despite his absence, the Clippers secured a 115-110 victory in Inglewood to end a two-game losing streak.
Coach Tyronn Lue explained the reasoning behind sitting his star player, citing recent injury concerns. « He’s been dealing with some things the last couple weeks with his wrist and with his ankle, » Lue said before the game, « so we just thought it would be smart just to get him as close to 100% as we can get him. »
A career season for Leonard
Leonard’s decision to sit out the finale came after completing one of his most successful seasons as a Clipper. The forward averaged career-high numbers with 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds and 3.6 assists while playing in 68 games – his second-most as a member of the franchise.
The availability marked a significant improvement from the previous season, when Leonard was limited to just 37 games due to various injuries. His durability this year allowed him to make a greater impact on the team’s success throughout the campaign.
« Just being healthy, being able to play in back-to-backs, being able to carry this team when we’re down, » Lue said when reflecting on Leonard’s contributions. « Just happy for him to be able to get back on the floor for a lot of games this year. »
Leadership presence despite absence
Even while not playing, Leonard’s presence on the sideline provided valuable support for his teammates during the victory over Golden State. Lue praised his star’s engagement and leadership from the bench.
« I mean, it’s great just coming out supporting the guys and talking to guys, you know, just if they make a mistake or what they can do better, » Lue explained. « And just being engaged, you know, just having our best player around for the support, you know, is huge for these young guys. »
Leonard’s absence from the regular-season finale doesn’t impact his eligibility for postseason honors, including potential All-NBA recognition. By playing in his 65th game on Friday, he reached the minimum threshold required for awards consideration, joining Victor Wembanyama and Evan Mobley in securing last-minute eligibility.
The Clippers will face the Warriors again on Wednesday in the play-in tournament, where Stephen Curry and Golden State enter as the No. 10 seed.
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