Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) shoots against the Phoenix Suns during the second half of an NBA basketball game Thursday, April 8, 2021, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)
Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard will miss Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals due to a right knee sprain.
The official injury report, which was released at 5:30 p.m. Arizona time, also revealed that Phoenix Suns point guard Chris Paul will miss Sunday’s series opener due to the NBA’s health and safety protocols.
Earlier on Saturday, Yahoo Sports’ Chris Haynes reported that Leonard did not travel with the Clippers to Phoenix and stayed behind in Los Angeles to continue rehabbing his right knee sprain.
The two-time NBA Finals MVP injured his right knee in the fourth quarter of Game 4 against the Utah Jazz on Monday. While driving to the basket, Leonard landed awkwardly with his right foot, causing him to miss both Game 5 and 6.
The Athletic’s Shams Charania reported on Wednesday that the Clippers fear Leonard may have injured his ACL.
The team has not provided an update on the extent of Leonard’s injury.
In the Clippers’ current playoff run, Leonard has averaged 30.4 points per game, 7.7 rebounds and 4.4 assists.
Game 1 between the Suns and Clippers is scheduled for Sunday at 12:30 p.m. Listen live on 98.7 FM Arizona’s Sports Station.
