Clippers expect Kawhi Leonard to return for Sunday matchup with Cavaliers
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Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard is on track to play Sunday against the Cleveland Cavaliers, TNT reporter Chris Haynes said Friday.
The two-time NBA Finals MVP has been sidelined since Nov. 3 with sprains to his right ankle and foot. He will sit out his ninth straight game Saturday in Charlotte before aiming to suit up for the second leg of the back-to-back at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, barring any late setback.
Leonard opened the season in strong form, averaging 24.3 points, 5.7 rebounds, 3.5 assists and 2.5 steals while shooting 50 percent over six appearances. The Clippers were 3-3 during that stretch but have lost eight of nine without him, dropping to 4-11.
Despite the slide, Los Angeles remains close to the Western Conference play-in cutoff; the Utah Jazz occupy 10th place at 5-10.
Head coach Tyronn Lue first replaced Leonard with guard Kris Dunn, and additional injuries to Bradley Beal and Derrick Jones Jr. moved John Collins and rookie Kobe Sanders into the starting lineup. Leonard’s return is expected to send one of those players—likely Sanders—back to the bench.
Source: Hoops Wire
