Clippers star Kawhi Leonard. (Jeffrey Swinger-USA TODAY Sports)
Will Kawhi Leonard return to the LA Clippers in time to play in Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals?
The LA Clippers secured their first Western Conference Finals win in franchise history after defeating the Phoenix Suns 106-92 in Game 3 on Thursday night. The team did so without star Kawhi Leonard, who has been on the sidelines since spraining his right knee in Game 4 of their second-round series against the Utah Jazz. For those Clippers fans holding out hope that Leonard will return in time for Game 4, they can stop holding their breath.
Clippers head coach Tyronn Lue announced on Friday that Leonard is officially out for Game 4 of the conference finals on Saturday.
Kawhi Leonard officially ruled out for Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals
Leonard last played in Game 4 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Utah Jazz, where he tallied 31 points and 7 rebounds in 34 minutes. But late in the fourth quarter, Leonard’s right knee appeared to buckle when he was driving to the basket, and he exited for the remainder of the contest. Following that game, reports indicated that the Clippers fear Leonard suffered a knee sprain and he’s been out ever since.
Even with Leonard out, the Clippers closed out the final two games of their series against the Jazz to reach the third round. While the Clippers did drop the first two games to the Suns, they followed it up with a huge Game 3 win on Thursday night. Paul George recorded 27 points (9-for-26 shooting from the field), 15 rebounds and 8 assists, while Reggie Jackson tallied 23 points (9-for-17 from the field).
While the severity of Leonard’s knee injury is unknown, what can be confirmed is that he will not be suiting up for Game 4 at the Staples Center this weekend.