The Toronto Raptors will host the Los Angeles Clippers for the next matchup on Sunday, February 2. While the Clippers have an upper hand over Toronto, fans are speculating about Kawhi Leonard’s availability for the game.
Leonard, who has been gradually reintegrating himself into the lineup this season, will indeed be playing tonight. This marks his 11th appearance of the year, and while he has been efficient, he continues to work under a minute restriction. Kawhi has yet to exceed 30 minutes in any game due to his leg injury.
His presence will be crucial as the Clippers look to extend their success. And particularly with Norman Powell sidelined due to right hip soreness. The Clippers will also be without Kris Dunn and Cam Christie. And recent trades involving Drew Eubanks and Patty Mills leave them unavailable as well. Nevertheless, Leonard and James Harden’s availability ensures that the Clippers maintain a competitive edge despite the setbacks.
The Clippers are now 8-2 when Kawhi Leonard plays this season pic.twitter.com/tyNrS2zRyz
— KlawedUP🦇 (@KlawedUP) February 1, 2025
Although, the Clippers are coming to the game with a comparatively better record of 28-20 against the 15-33 Raptors at the Scotiabank Arena. Additionally, injury concerns loom as well on the Raptors’ side. They face uncertainty, with Jamal Shead being doubtful due to illness and Davion Mitchell listed as questionable due to a right foot issue.
Kawhi Leonard Gets Booed By Spurs Fans
While Kawhi is making a gradual rollback from his concerning injury, San Antonio fans still seems to have no mercy on him. And Leonard’s return to San Antonio on Wednesday ignited familiar emotions from Spurs fans. He has been met with a familiar chorus of boos from a fan base still grappling with his departure nearly seven years ago.
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The Spurs faithful displayed their displeasure during the player introductions. While Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich has consistently urged fans to move beyond the past, it seems the wounds from Leonard’s 2019 trade request are still fresh. In a game where Leonard shone on the court, scoring 27 points and contributing seven assists and six rebounds, one couldn’t help but notice the intensity of the crowd’s reactions.
“It’s just because the player I am. And what I’ve done here. So it’s a little pain in the heart still. It’s still love in the city wherever I go. But obviously when I put on that different jersey, they have a great fanbase, so they’re gonna stick to the Spurs and I’m okay with that,” Leonard said after the game.
Kawhi Leonard on Spurs fans booing him:
— Joey Linn (@joeylinn_) January 30, 2025
“It’s just because the player I am. And what I’ve done here. So it’s a little pain in the heart still. It’s still love in the city wherever I go. But obviously when I put on that different jersey, they have a great fanbase, so they’re… pic.twitter.com/NbsTGCi6GQ
Despite the negativity directed at him, Leonard remained composed and led the Clippers to a 128-116 victory over the Spurs. His performance was particularly notable given that he has been ramping up his minutes since returning from injury.
Also Read:Clippers’ Kawhi Leonard Is “Stepping Away” From The Team To Help His Family Amid LA Wildfire Crisis
