This is not a new injury for the 33-year-old, who has been extremely vulnerable in this regard in recent years. However, Leonard missed twelve of the last 14 games of the season (including the playoffs) with the Clippers due to knee problems. This is probably why his team in particular decided against playing him.
At least that’s what the official statement suggests: According to Team USA, he “had some strong training sessions in Las Vegas and felt ready for the tournament. However, he respects that USA Basketball and the Clippers have come to the conclusion that it would be in his best interest to spend the remainder of the summer preparing for the upcoming season.”
Leonard will be replaced by NBA champion Derrick White. The guard won the title with the Boston Celtics last season and signed a four-year, nearly $126 million contract extension in the offseason. “We look forward to him joining the team in the coming days.”
Two weeks ago, head coach Steve Kerr was optimistic about Leonard’s fitness. He said at the end of June that they expect “all 12 to be ready.” In addition to Leonard, Kevin Durant is also currently missing because he is suffering from a calf injury.
2024-07-10 18:26:00
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