Los Angeles Clippers star forward Kawhi Leonard is reportedly on track to have a strong 14th season after staying healthy throughout an entire playoff series for the first time in four years. Following the Clippers’ Game 7 elimination by the Denver Nuggets, Clippers president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank shared an optimistic update on Leonard’s offseason progress.
Since leading the Toronto Raptors to his second NBA championship in 2019, Leonard’s contributions in the postseason have diminished primarily due to injuries. He suffered a partially torn right ACL in June 2021, which sidelined him for the entire 2021-22 season, and more recently dealt with a torn right meniscus in April 2023 and right knee inflammation that disrupted last season and the start of the 2024 playoff run.
After missing the first 34 games of the current season, Leonard made a successful return in early January and managed to maintain his health through the playoffs. With a revamped roster, which includes notable players like Bradley Beal, Brook Lopez, and John Collins, the Clippers are looking to elevate their play in the upcoming season, with Leonard’s health being a pivotal factor.
During a recent media session, Frank highlighted Leonard’s dedication to his offseason training, noting that for the first time in years, he is healthy and is not facing any surgical procedures. “He’s doing great,” Frank said. “He feels great, he’s been working extremely hard…He’s super excited about the roster and the season ahead.”
With the Clippers coming off a 50-win season, they are gearing up to compete for home-court advantage in the playoffs. The addition of Lopez and Collins, who offer floor spacing and dynamic playmaking, respectively, is expected to enhance the team’s competitiveness, while Beal will provide critical offensive support following the departure of Norman Powell.
Leonard and the Clippers will be looking toward a potential postseason series win in 2026, which would mark their first since 2021, and the sense of optimism surrounding the team’s new roster and Leonard’s health brings hope for an exciting season ahead.