The Los Angeles Clippers are gearing up for a crucial season ahead, with key updates on star forward Kawhi Leonard and significant roster changes. Head Coach Ty Lue has expressed confidence in Leonard's readiness as the team heads into their training camp on October 1 in Honolulu, Hawaii.
Kawhi Leonard's Recovery and Training Camp Readiness
Kawhi Leonard, who has been battling persistent knee issues, missed the last eight regular-season games and crucial playoff matchups against the Dallas Mavericks last season due to inflammation. Despite these setbacks, Ty Lue is optimistic about Leonard's return to form. "I speak to him all the time. He'll be ready for [Clippers] training camp. He's feeling good and I know he'll be ready for training camp," said Lue.
Leonard's health has been a focal point for the Clippers, given his instrumental role on the team. His participation in a mini camp with Team USA ahead of the Tokyo Olympics in July further indicated progress, although he was eventually replaced by Boston Celtics guard Derrick White for the Games.
Controversy Over Olympic Exclusion
The decision to exclude Leonard from the Olympic team did not sit well, particularly with Clippers president Lawrence Frank. "It was USAB's call, and I was, quite frankly, very disappointed with the decision. Kawhi wanted to play. We wanted him to play. I was there the first two practices. He looked very good. Participated, was a full participant in everything that they did," Frank stated, underscoring the organization's belief in Leonard's readiness.
Frank expressed a desire for more consideration from the decision-makers. "I expressed to them, I really wish that they would have given Kawhi more time. We have the benefit of having been around Kawhi for five years to see his body and see where he's at. So, he looked good to me," he added. Such statements hint at possible rifts between the Clippers' management and the national team's decision-making process.
Paul George's Departure
As the Clippers focus on strengthening their roster, they face the challenge of overcoming the departure of Paul George, who left for the Philadelphia 76ers in free agency. This development has undoubtedly shaken the team's dynamic, but Ty Lue remains undeterred. "When you lose a guy of Paul George's stature, instantly people [think] oh, they can't win or they're not going to be competitive. But that just challenges me even more. OK, people are counting us out or people don't think we're going to be good. That right there just gives me an extra dose of [motivation]," Lue commented.
Looking Forward: Training Camp and New Arena
The Clippers' training camp in Honolulu will be a critical period for the team to regroup and build cohesion in the absence of George. This preparatory phase will set the tone for their season, aiming to capitalize on Leonard's return and the team's inherent resilience.
In a significant milestone, the Clippers are set to inaugurate their new arena on October 23, with a match-up against the Phoenix Suns. This development marks a new chapter for the franchise, offering fresh opportunities and challenges alike.
As the Clippers navigate these transitions, they will undoubtedly be under scrutiny, with fans and analysts alike watching Leonard's comeback closely and assessing the impact of George's exit. The coming weeks will be telling, as the team strives to assert its position in the league and return to competitive prominence.