Kawhi Leonard shares reason for not playing in the Paris OlympicsKawhi Leonard (Image Credit: Getty Images)
Team USA wrapped up their 2024 Paris Olympics campaign by winning their fifth consecutive gold medal. Initially, Los Angeles Clippers star Kawhi Leonard was set to be part of the roster. However, his ongoing injury concerns forced him to withdraw from the team. In his place, Derrick White stepped in to contribute to the team’s success.

During the Los Angeles Clippers’ media day at the Intuit Dome, Leonard addressed his absence from Team USA’s roster. He clarified that stepping back was necessary to ensure his long-term fitness for the NBA season.

“Leading up to the Olympics, after the Olympics, everything was great. And then, like I said, we want to make sure we cut things back. We did things leading up to that point; I was doing everything,” Leonard said.
Kawhi Leonard (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)
“And then we took a step back and wanted to make sure I’m ready for the season and just be able to last in those important moments for myself, fans, and Clippers,” he added.

Kawhi Leonard Speaks On Injury Progress

Kawhi Leonard recently underwent another knee procedure in the offseason, marking his third right knee surgery since the 2021 playoffs. Reports suggested that Leonard would be limited at the start of training camp due to his recovery process.

Despite this, Leonard remains on track to be ready for the season opener. During practice on Tuesday, Leonard was held out of 5-on-5 drills with his teammates. But he reassured fans at the Clippers’ media day that he’s progressing. “There’s some stuff we can do or try to do to make me last. We’ll see what happens,” Leonard told reporters.

Leonard’s availability is crucial for the Los Angeles Clippers, especially with the departures of key players like Paul George and Russell Westbrook to other teams. Leonard’s presence will majorly affect the team’s success this season.

Last season, Leonard played in 68 games, which was his most since the 2016-17 season, averaging 23.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game. With the season opener against the Phoenix Suns on October 23, fans are eager to see if Leonard will be able to take the floor and lead the Clippers in the new season.