Los Angeles Clippers head coach Ty Lue is projecting confidence ahead of the upcoming NBA season, particularly concerning the readiness of star forward Kawhi Leonard. Despite a rocky previous season marked by persistent knee problems, Lue reassured fans and observers that Leonard will be back in action when training camp kicks off 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 unequivocally.
Injury Struggles and Recovery
Leonard's knee issues were a significant concern last season, ultimately sidelining him for the final eight games of the regular season due to inflammation. These knee problems also kept him out of crucial playoff matchups against the Dallas Mavericks, raising questions about his long-term health and availability.
Nevertheless, Leonard took steps to remain competitive and active, including his participation in a mini camp with Team USA in Las Vegas ahead of the Tokyo Olympics in July. However, his progress was met with disappointment from Clippers' brass when Leonard was ultimately replaced by Boston Celtics guard Derrick White for the Olympic roster.
Lawrence Frank, the Clippers' president, couldn’t hide his disappointment over the decision. “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 expressed.
Internal Dynamics and Transitions
Frank also elaborated on Leonard’s condition during the mini camp, suggesting that the decision to exclude him might have been premature. “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,” he added.
This combination of Lue and Frank’s insights provides a glimpse into the Clippers' internal deliberations and the challenges they face. While optimism surrounding Leonard's return may offer some solace, the team is also navigating the aftermath of losing Paul George, who departed for the Philadelphia 76ers in free agency.
New Season, New Challenges
Ty Lue acknowledged the impact of George’s departure but remains steadfast in his commitment to the team's competitiveness. “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 upcoming season holds additional excitement for Clippers fans, as the team is set to inaugurate their new arena on October 23 against the Phoenix Suns. This event marks a significant milestone for the franchise and promises to provide a revitalized home-court environment.
Looking Ahead
As the Clippers prepare to convene in Honolulu for training camp, the focus will be on integrating new faces, overcoming past frustrations, and building a cohesive unit capable of challenging the league’s top contenders. The return of Kawhi Leonard, assuming his health holds up, will be critical to these efforts. Lue’s confidence in Leonard’s readiness, coupled with the team's resolve following key exits, sets the stage for what could be a compelling narrative in the story of the 2023-2024 NBA season.
With both leadership and talent, the Clippers aim to dispel doubts and emerge stronger, starting their journey in the tropical backdrop of Hawaii. As they prepare for the rigors ahead, the eyes of the basketball world will undoubtedly be watching closely.