San Antonio Spurs Considering Saturday For Kawhi Leonard's Return
What's the story?
San Antonio Spurs are considering Saturday's road game against the Phoenix Suns as the date for Kawhi Leonard's return.
In case you didn't know...
Leonard got injured in Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals last season against the Golden State Warriors and hasn't stepped on the floor since. Last season, Leonard averaged career-high 25.5 points, 3.5 assists, and 1.8 steals per game.
The heart of the matter...
The 2-time All-Star expressed his feeling indefinitely about the right quadriceps tendinopathy that has kept him off the court for 25 games this season. When asked about his season debut on Monday, Leonard had this to say "I'm feeling pretty healthy right now. I think they told you guys that I've been playing 5-on-5. So that's where I'm at right now. It's been good. Just still, just gotta go through a few more processes of doing that. I should be back soon."
Gregg Popovich whenever asked about Leonard's possible return this season has commented: "sooner rather than later". But this Monday he joked that "sooner" is "really much sooner now."
As part of the recovery, Leonard has worked through a rehabilitation process comprised of several steps such as individual work, 2-on-2 and 3-on-3 drills, before receiving clearance to practice with the team.
When asked about his recovery, Leonard said "I just took it day to day, week to week, I was just focused on my injury. Just me not being able to play the game, it was a little frustrating. But my team is doing a great job right now of holding their own. A lot of people stepped up in the process, and it's going to be great for us in the long run."
What's next?
Leonard will go through practice on both Thursday and Friday and the final decision will be announced depending upon how he feels on Friday after San Antonio's morning work at the club's facilities.
Author's take
The San Antonio Spurs have adjusted well in the absence of Leonard. It all depends on what shape Leonard will return to the court, but it will surely be a big boost for them.