Is Kawhi Leonard playing tonight against the Toronto Raptors? | December 27th, 2022 | 2022-23 NBA Season
The LA Clippers will take on superstar Kawhi Leonard's former team, the Toronto Raptors, tonight (December 27th). Leonard's availability is a talking point entering this clash. The Clippers have been cautious since his comeback from injury this year.
He has rested on the front or back end of back-to-backs. The Clippers opted to do that against the Detroit Pistons. LA is yet to release their injury report. Leonard was ruled out of the Pistons' game, citing injury management, so he will likely play against his former team.
As mentioned above, he has rested in one of the back-to-back games this season, meaning he could suit up for Tuesday's clash. It will be Kawhi Leonard's first regular-season game at the Scotiabank Arena since December 19th, 2019, his first game at the venue after he left the Raptors in free agency.
"The Klaw" led them to a championship in his only season there. He remains a respected figure in the city. One can expect the former DPOY winner to receive a warm reception in just his second game in Toronto in over two years.
Kawhi Leonard in lethal form entering the game against Toronto Raptors
Kawhi Leonard's return didn't go as planned initially. He was rusty and found it difficult to rediscover his rhythm. Leonard also struggled with his knee and had to be sidelined for a brief stretch. However, he seems to have turned a corner since December.
In eight games this month, Leonard has averaged 20.3 points and 7.1 rebounds per game, shooting 47.7% from the field. He has registered 25+ points on three occasions. The Clippers have recorded a 6-2 run during that stretch.
Leonard finding his feet could work wonders for the Clippers, who returned to winning ways with a 142-131 comeback OT win over the Pistons. LA had their five-game winning run snapped by the Sixers in Leonard's last appearance.
Kawhi bagged 28 points on 63.2% shooting in that contest, though. He has the momentum entering the Raptors' game. Leonard produced the best season of his career in Toronto, and he will be hoping to have a solid comeback game against his former team.