Ahead of the highly anticipated matchup between the LA Clippers and the Milwaukee Bucks, all eyes are on Kawhi Leonard’s availability as he prepares to take the court against the Eastern Conference contenders.
Throughout the season, Leonard has maintained a relatively injury-free status, having missed only five games. This consistency bodes well for the Clippers, with Leonard poised to surpass the 65-game mark for the first time since 2017. His contribution has been instrumental in guiding the Clippers to a commendable 39-20 record this season.
Statistically, Leonard has been a force to be reckoned with, averaging 24.0 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 3.7 assists while boasting impressive shooting splits of 53/44/89. As the Clippers gear up to face the surging Bucks, Leonard’s presence on the court is invaluable, particularly against a team riding a five-game winning streak under the guidance of coach Doc Rivers.
Kawhi was on a mission, scoring 32 PTS and leading the @LAClippers past the 1st-place Timberwolves! pic.twitter.com/ZUgUAhFsnL
— NBA (@NBA) March 3, 2024
Delving into Leonard’s injury history, the two-time Finals MVP has encountered minor setbacks during the season. A hip issue, sustained during a collision with Grant Williams of the Dallas Mavericks on December 20, sidelined Leonard for four games. Additionally, an adductor issue forced him to miss a solitary game against the Golden State Warriors on February 14, resulting in a 3-2 record for the Clippers in his absence.
In past encounters against the Bucks, Leonard has displayed versatility and dominance, averaging 18.6 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 2.7 assists across 17 games. However, the Clippers hold a 10-7 record against the Bucks, with their last meeting resulting in a narrow 106-105 loss on February 2, 2023.
As the Bucks emerge as favorites in Monday’s clash, the Clippers will rely on Leonard’s stellar performance to tip the scales in their favor. Fresh off a 32-point outing against the formidable defense of the Timberwolves, Leonard’s offensive prowess will be pivotal against the Bucks’ lineup.
Furthermore, Kawhi Leonard’s defensive capabilities will be put to the test as he squares off against Giannis Antetokounmpo, a matchup crucial for the Clippers’ defensive strategy. With the game set to be televised nationally on NBA TV and streamed online via NBA League Pass, fans can expect an electrifying showdown between two formidable NBA contenders, with marquee players such as Leonard, Antetokounmpo, Damian Lillard, Paul George, and James Harden poised to take center stage.
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