Los Angeles Clippers All-Star Kawhi Leonard has been ruled out for Game 4 against the Phoenix Suns, the team announced on Friday. An injury to his right knee sustained during Game 2 of the series kept him out for Game 3, which the Clippers unfortunately lost without his contributions. The extent of the injury was a concern for the Clippers, and it has now been confirmed that the superstar will remain on the bench for Game 4.
This is devastating news for the Clippers, as Leonard has been an integral part of their success in the playoffs. His absence will certainly be felt by the team, which is currently down 1-2 in the series. This is the latest of a series of injuries to key players across the league, with Joel Embiid also sitting out Game 4 of 76ers’ series against the Washington Wizards due to a knee injury.
The Clippers are not taking any chances with their star player, and it’s unclear when he will be able to return to the court. The team has not provided any timeline for his return, but it’s hoped that he can come back for subsequent games as the team fights to stay in the playoffs.
According to Bleacher Report (https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2944172-clippers-kawhi-leonard-out-for-game-4-vs-kevin-durant-suns-with-knee-injury), the Clippers just suffered another tough break with Leonard’s injury. It’s important for other players to step up in his absence as the team looks to defend their title.
Clippers head coach Ty Lue expressed disappointment in the loss of his star player but is confident in the capabilities of the team moving forward. In a report by ESPN (https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/31564675/kawhi-leonard-injury-update-clippers-star-ruled-game-4-vs-suns-knee-sprain), Lue stated that Leonard’s injury is “very deflating” but the team must regroup and focus on winning the next game.
Fans of the Clippers will hope that the rest of the team can rally together and make up for the absence of Kawhi Leonard. It will be a tough challenge, but the Clippers have proven in the past that they can perform against all odds. Nonetheless, Leonard’s injury will undoubtedly affect their chances of success in the playoffs.
