Kawhi Leonard Sidelined at Least a Week With Left Knee Swelling

Kawhi Leonard Sidelined by Left Knee Swelling

Toronto Raptors forward Kawhi Leonard will miss at least a week due to swelling in his left knee, forcing the two-time NBA Finals MVP out of the lineup just two games into the new season. NBA.com reported that tests revealed no acute injury in the joint, but the team has placed the 35-year-old on a treatment and rehabilitation program. Leonard missed Sunday’s 117-94 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves after sitting out as a late scratch. In his first two appearances this season, he averaged 19.5 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 3.5 steals across 26 minutes per game while shooting 32% from the field.

Missed Return to Intuit Dome and Upcoming Schedule

The one-week timeline rules Leonard out for Toronto’s upcoming four-game stretch, costing him his only scheduled visit to face the Los Angeles Clippers at the Intuit Dome. Sports Illustrated reported that Leonard will be re-evaluated in one week. CBS Sports noted that the itinerary includes a back-to-back set in Los Angeles against the Lakers and the Clippers, followed by a matchup against the Denver Nuggets. Ja’Kobe Walter stepped into the starting lineup against Minnesota and scored 22 points in 31 minutes, filling the void left by Leonard’s absence.

Contrasting Knee History and Offseason Context

The sudden absence highlights a stark contrast in medical history between Leonard’s previous tenure and his current stint in Toronto. ESPN reported that Leonard dealt with extensive right knee issues during his time with the Clippers, including an ACL tear in 2021 and a meniscus tear in 2023. Leonard returned to Toronto this summer following a trade from the Clippers and subsequently signed a $115 million extension through the 2028-29 season, reuniting with the franchise he led to its lone championship in 2019.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kawhi Leonard’s Knee Injury

Will Kawhi Leonard play against the Los Angeles Clippers on November 2?

Sports Illustrated confirmed that Leonard will not be available for the matchup at the Intuit Dome because his one-week re-evaluation falls around the time of the game.

When can fans expect Leonard to return to the floor?

CBS Sports reported that the Raptors have given a one-week timetable for re-evaluation starting Tuesday, meaning he will miss at least the next four games.