Kawhi Leonard will be out indefinitely to start the LA Clippers’ 24-25 season as he rehabs from inflammation in his right knee. Leonard is currently in the midst of a rehab process in hopes of sustainably allowing him to play through the season.
Leonard has not participated in any on-court contact during training camp.
“He has not been a part of what we’ve been doing on a daily basis,” Clippers assistant coach Brian Shaw said after Wednesday’s practice. “I know the company line has been that we’re going to be patient with him, so he’s doing everything that he can to rehab it and strengthen that knee on his own with our medical staff. And we’re just dealing with the guys that we have [available].”
James Harden figures to play a larger role in the absence of Leonard.
The Philadelphia 76ers have optimism that Jared McCain avoided serious injury following his fall in Wednesday’s preseason game. McCain experienced pulmonary contusions and is also being reevaluated for concussion.
McCain has been discharged from the hospital and is back home resting.
McCain, who was the 16th overall pick in the 2024 NBA draft, has averaged 12.8 points, 4.6 rebounds and 1.6 assists in 22.8 minutes over five preseason games with the Sixers.
Oklahoma City Thunder center Isaiah Hartenstein suffered a small, non-displaced fracture in his left hand. Hartenstein will be re-evaluated in five to six weeks.
Hartenstein, who shoots with his left hand, was signed in free agency by the Thunder. Oklahoma City gave the 7-foot center a three-year, $87 million contract to give them some additional frontcourt depth. It was unclear if Hartenstein was going to start or come off the bench, but he was slated to play a big role for the Thunder.
Oklahoma City is also dealing with an injury for Jaylin Williams. Last season’s primary backup center has been out for the entire preseason with a hamstring injury. His status for the start of the regular season is still unknown.
