Kawhi Leonard shared insights into his ongoing ankle injury following the Los Angeles Clippers‘ recent game against the Los Angeles Lakers on Sunday. He revealed the reasons behind his decision to leave late in the fourth quarter, emphasizing care for his long-term health over the remaining minutes.
Details on Leonard’s Injury Management During the Game
Leonard explained,
“I only had two minutes left in the game to play anyways. Just been a lingering injury,”
according to Clippers writer Joey Linn. He further added,
“They said if it didn’t loosen up, just let them know. I told medical I’d rather play whatever minutes I played tonight than try to blow it out in the last two minutes I had left. So just went to the back, made sure everything was right, and got treatment.”
Leonard’s comments highlight his prioritization of maintaining his physical condition over pushing through the final moments.
Team Confirmation and Leonard’s Role Expansion
The Clippers confirmed that Leonard would not return to the game due to soreness in his left ankle. This cautious approach is understandable given his increased responsibility on the squad after recent trades involving key players. Following the departures of James Harden to the Cleveland Cavaliers and Ivica Zubac to the Indiana Pacers, Leonard has taken on a more central role with the Clippers.
Performance Despite Injury and Upcoming Prospects
Despite the ankle concerns, Leonard appeared in the next game against the Orlando Magic, where he delivered an impressive performance with 37 points, eight rebounds, and four assists. However, the Clippers lost a close match, 109–111. Moving forward, Leonard’s health and ability to manage this injury will be crucial for the Clippers as they navigate an increasingly competitive schedule that includes matchups against teams like the Minnesota Timberwolves and New Orleans Pelicans.
Kawhi Leonard on his lingering ankle injury and leaving the Lakers game early:
“I only had two minutes left in the game to play anyways. Just been a lingering injury. They said if it didn’t loosen up just let them know. I told medical I’d rather play whatever minutes I played… pic.twitter.com/sTfHvmw95j
— Joey Linn (@joeylinn_) February 23, 2026
