It is well-known that Kawhi Leonard, the star player of the Clippers this season, underwent knee surgery once again during the offseason, causing him to miss all the games at the beginning of the season. Leonard's injury has brought great trouble to the Clippers, and the team could only rely on Harden to lead them through difficult times. Fortunately, Harden did not disappoint, leading the Clippers to an impressive performance, currently ranking fifth in the West.
Without Leonard, the Clippers have achieved such results, which is enough to satisfy the fans. However, everyone knows that if the Clippers want to go further, they still need superstars like Leonard to lead the team forward. According to previous reports, Leonard's return is already in the countdown stage. There was news that Leonard would make his comeback around Christmas. However, Christmas has passed, and Leonard has not yet returned.
Even so, the time for Leonard's actual return is getting closer and closer. On December 28th, Beijing time, the Clippers' team reporter confirmed the news of Leonard's imminent return. Law Murray reported that Leonard aims to return on January 5th (Beijing time) at home against the Hawks, finally making his season debut! At 11:30 am on January 5th, the Clippers will welcome the challenge of the Hawks at home. Leonard underwent knee surgery during the offseason, missing the Olympics and several early-season games for the Clippers. Recently, Leonard has started to gradually resume training.
The Hawks currently have a record of 16 wins and 15 losses, ranking seventh in the East. Under the leadership of Trae Young, this Hawks team can also be considered a strong team in the league. Leonard chose such an opponent to return, wanting to test his condition and strength by competing with high-level opponents. This shows that Leonard is very confident in his condition and strength. It is also hoped that in this game on January 5th, Beijing time, Leonard can deliver an anticipated performance.
Many Lakers fans feel heartbroken upon hearing the news of Leonard's official return. Because with the same injury management, the Lakers' three main frontcourt players, Wood, Hayes, and Vanderbilt, still show no signs of returning from their injuries. Even Leonard, who is considered a "frequent patient," is about to return, but the Lakers' injured players are still unable to return, leaving the Lakers in a struggling situation as well. As fellow city brothers, the Clippers are about to emerge from the trough, when will the Lakers truly see the light?