Image Source: Instagram
[Saba Sports News] Kawhi Leonard is gearing up for his return to the court. The injured LA Clippers star forward made waves on Friday with a significant announcement via Instagram, sharing a new commercial from New Balance that hints at his comeback.
In the ad, Leonard steps out of a car as a radio announcer declares, “Exciting news coming out of Los Angeles — Kawhi Leonard looks to be returning to the court pretty soon.”
Leonard then meets a version of himself, who reflects, “There’s been good days. There’s been bad days. But I keep coming back. It’s the nature of the game.”
The former Finals MVP has been sidelined all season due to inflammation in his surgically-repaired right knee, which also kept him out of the Clippers’ playoff run last year and the Paris Olympics with Team USA. However, Leonard recently returned to full-contact 5-on-5 practices, signaling his readiness to rejoin the team.
While Leonard won’t join the Clippers on their upcoming road trip, he is set to practice with their G League affiliate. A Jan. 4 home game against the Atlanta Hawks could mark his season debut.
At 33, Leonard faces questions about his durability after years of injuries, but his return offers a significant boost to the Clippers, who are holding a solid 17-13 record and are tied for sixth in the Western Conference.
The team has managed well without him but will welcome his impact as they look to deepen their rotation. His comeback could shift Kris Dunn to the bench and potentially edge Kevin Porter Jr. out of the regular lineup.
Leonard’s announcement adds anticipation for what’s next in his storied career, as fans and the Clippers await his return to the rafters.