Los Angeles Clippers star Kawhi Leonard will be listed as questionable for Game 1 against the Dallas Mavericks, but all signs currently point to him not being available for the series opener. ing. Speaking to reporters before Saturday's practice, Lue said Leonard has been able to hit shots, but he doesn't plan on having any contact before Sunday's game.
Lue could not say whether Leonard would play in Game 1, but the star forward will be available for a playoff game by Sunday afternoon after going inactive during Saturday's practice. It seems very unlikely.
Clippers star Paul George also addressed the media Saturday and appeared to be preparing to play without his star teammates.
“Kawhi wants to be a part of this as much as anyone,” George said. “He's been working hard and doing everything he can to be available…When he's ready, he'll be ready.”
George said the Clippers have been unlucky when it comes to injuries the past few seasons, but added that he is trying to focus on the positives, saying, “I think he's going to be with us someday.”
Based on what Lue and George shared on Saturday, Leonard's status for Game 1 is in serious doubt, and it's looking increasingly unlikely that he'll be available when this series begins.
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