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INGLEWOOD, Calif. — Kawhi Leonard is taking a cautious approach as he continues to navigate through a minutes restriction following his recent return to the court this season.
“I’m taking my time,” said Leonard, the star forward for the Los Angeles Clippers. “I’ve tried to rush things in the past, and it led to more time on the bench, so I’m satisfied with my current situation.”
In his third game back, Leonard scored six points on 3-for-9 shooting and grabbed five rebounds in 21 minutes during a 109-98 win over the Miami Heat on Monday evening. He didn’t see any action in the fourth quarter after the Clippers fell behind early by 13 points.
“I’m glad we secured the win,” he added. “It was a solid team effort.”
The Clippers currently hold a record of 21-17, placing them sixth in the Western Conference.
“I’m just focused on doing my part to help the team achieve success,” Leonard commented.
Over his three games since returning, Leonard has recorded a total of 26 points and 10 rebounds in 61 minutes. The two-time NBA Finals MVP delayed the start of the season to allow himself ample time for rehabilitation and recovery of his surgically repaired right knee, which has affected him in previous seasons.
“I feel good, and as long as I can move well and get to my spots on the floor, that’s all that matters to me,” Leonard stated.
His teammates are gradually working to assimilate him back into the system they developed while he was absent. They had a record of 19-15 before his return.
“He’s getting back into the swing of things in terms of conditioning, gameplay, and overall rhythm,” James Harden shared. “He didn’t have a training camp or preseason, so we’re aiming to simplify things for him.”
During the early season, updates on Leonard’s status were scarce, with little communication about his progress as he refrained from media interactions.
“Kawhi is undoubtedly one of the top players in the league,” remarked center Ivica Zubac. “Once he finds his rhythm and gets his legs under him, he’s going to shine.”
Leonard did not participate in the game against Denver last week, as he chose to prioritize family amidst the wildfires affecting the Los Angeles area. He returned home to ensure his family’s safety.
“Just working on arranging everything for my family and making sure they are secure and well,” he shared.
When inquired about the condition of his house, Leonard remarked, “As we know, not everyone has been lucky. The destruction is evident with all the burned homes, so it’s quite clear.”
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