Los Angeles Clippers head coach Ty Lue is brimming with confidence regarding star forward Kawhi Leonard's readiness for the upcoming season. Addressing concerns over Leonard's health, Lue assured that Leonard, despite battling knee problems last season, would be fit to participate when the Clippers’ training camp begins on October 1 in Honolulu, Hawaii. "I speak to him all the time. He'll be ready for [Clippers] training camp. He's feeling good and I know he'll be ready for training camp," Lue stated.
The anticipation around Leonard’s return stems from knee inflammation that sidelined him for the final eight regular-season games and the crucial playoff matchups against the Dallas Mavericks. These injuries curtailed Leonard’s impact last season, casting a shadow over the Clippers’ playoff ambitions. However, Lue’s declarations signal a potential turnaround for the franchise as they gear up for the new season.
Team USA Disappointment
Leonard's recent interactions included participating in a mini camp with Team USA in Las Vegas ahead of the Tokyo Olympics in July. However, despite showing promise during the practices, he was eventually excluded from the Olympic roster, a decision that did not sit well with Clippers president Lawrence Frank. "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, expressing his frustration. He further added, "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."
Adapting to Changes
As the Clippers prepare for the new season, they're also adapting to significant roster changes, notably the departure of Paul George to the Philadelphia 76ers in free agency. This move, while unexpected, has only fueled Lue's determination and resolve. "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 remarked.
The Clippers’ upcoming schedule features significant milestones, beginning with the commencement of their training camp in Honolulu. Moreover, the team is set to inaugurate their new arena on October 23, with a much-anticipated game against the Phoenix Suns, marking a new chapter in the franchise's history.
As excitement builds and preparations continue, the collective focus remains on Leonard’s health and readiness, the reconfigured roster, and a fresh start in their new home. The Clippers, bolstered by Lue’s optimism and leadership, aim to dispel doubts and demonstrate their competitive spirit in the forthcoming season.