### Kawhi Leonard to Miss Start of NBA Season Due to Knee Inflammation

LA Clippers star Kawhi Leonard faces an indefinite sideline period as he addresses inflammation in his right knee. The Clippers are prioritizing a cautious rehabilitation strategy in hopes of ensuring Leonard's long-term fitness and sustainability on the court.

The 33-year-old Leonard has not participated in any preseason games and has been absent from all on-court contact activities during training camp. Clippers assistant coach Brian Shaw noted that Leonard has not been involved in daily team activities and emphasized that the team’s focus is on patiently guiding Leonard through his rehab process with the help of the medical staff.

James Harden, feeling more settled after a full training camp, is expected to take on a significant offensive role and provide leadership in Leonard's absence. Harden, who joined the Clippers in an early-season trade from Philadelphia last year, will work closely with teammates like Ivica Zubac, Norman Powell, and Terance Mann. Harden has openly supported Leonard, encouraging him to take all necessary time to achieve full health for the later stages of the season.

Leonard's knee issues began resurgent after a victory against Charlotte on March 31, leading him to miss the final eight games of the last regular season. He was limited to only two games during the first-round playoff loss to Dallas. The Clippers and Leonard have since undergone various medical treatments to manage the inflammation.

Leonard has missed a significant number of games due to injuries since joining the Clippers in 2019, sitting out 179 of a possible 435 games. Despite these setbacks, he managed to play 68 regular-season games last year, averaging 23.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.6 steals, earning his sixth All-Star selection.