Los Angeles Clippers head coach Ty Lue exudes confidence regarding Kawhi Leonard's return to form, assuring fans and followers that the star forward will be ready as training camp commences on October 1 in Honolulu, Hawaii. This optimism comes in the wake of Leonard's persistent knee issues, which severely hampered his performance and availability last season.
Leonard's knee problems were a significant concern for the Clippers last season, ultimately sidelining him for the final eight regular-season games due to inflammation. His absence was notably felt during crucial playoff matchups against the Dallas Mavericks, laying bare the gravity of the situation. Despite these challenges, Leonard did participate in a mini-camp with Team USA in Las Vegas ahead of the Tokyo Olympics in July, showcasing flashes of his potential return.
However, Leonard’s involvement with Team USA was short-lived. He was ultimately replaced by Boston Celtics guard Derrick White for the Tokyo Olympics, a decision that left Clippers president Lawrence Frank visibly disappointed. "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 shared.
Frank's frustrations echo the broader sentiment within the Clippers organization. He elaborated further, "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."
As the Clippers gear up for their training camp in Honolulu, the absence of Paul George, who departed for the Philadelphia 76ers in free agency, looms large. Yet, 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 stated robustly.
With a new season on the horizon, the Clippers' journey will also include inaugurating their new arena on October 23 against the Phoenix Suns, adding an extra layer of excitement and anticipation. Lue's faith in Leonard's readiness and the collective resilience of the team will be critical as they navigate the upcoming season's challenges. The training camp in Hawaii isn't just a preparation phase for the games ahead, but a crucial step in regrouping and strategizing for a successful campaign.
For Clippers fans, the upcoming weeks will be telling. Leonard's return, coupled with the team's dynamics post-George's departure, will set the tone for what promises to be a pivotal season. If Leonard can maintain his health and form, and the rest of the squad steps up to fill George's void, the Clippers might defy naysayers and emerge as a formidable force.
In the end, Lue's confidence and Frank's determination reflect a resolute Clippers organization ready to tackle adversity head-on. The belief in Leonard's recovery and the team's potential underscores the collective spirit driving the Clippers as they approach the new season with renewed vigor and hope.