Los Angeles Clippers head coach Ty Lue has expressed confidence in star forward Kawhi Leonard's readiness for the upcoming NBA season. As training camp kicks off on October 1 in Honolulu, Hawaii, Lue is optimistic about Leonard's health and participation.
"I speak to him all the time. He'll be ready for [Clippers] training camp. He's feeling good and I know he'll be ready for training camp," Lue assured.
Rebounding from Knee Issues
Leonard's previous season was hampered by persistent knee problems, which culminated in his absence from the final eight regular-season games due to inflammation. These issues also prevented him from participating in essential playoff matches against the Dallas Mavericks, a significant blow to the Clippers' championship aspirations.
Despite these setbacks, Leonard demonstrated his commitment to recovery and readiness by participating in a mini-camp with Team USA in Las Vegas ahead of the Tokyo Olympics in July. His performance at the camp was promising; however, the decision to exclude him from the Olympic team followed, much to the disappointment of Clippers President Lawrence Frank.
"It was USAB's call, and I was, quite frankly, very disappointed with the decision," Frank said. "Kawhi wanted to play. We wanted him to play. I was there for the first two practices. He looked very good. Participated, was a full participant in everything that they did."
Disappointment and Optimism
Frank voiced his frustration over the exclusion, supporting Leonard's participation. "I expressed to them, I really wish that they would have given Kawhi more time. We have the benefit of having been around Kawhi for five years to see his body and see where he's at. So, he looked good to me," he added.
The Clippers are approaching this new season with renewed hope and determination, despite the significant loss of another key player, Paul George, who left for the Philadelphia 76ers in free agency. Reflecting on this development, Lue acknowledged the challenges but remained undaunted.
"When you lose a guy of Paul George's stature, instantly people [think] oh, they can't win or they're not going to be competitive. But that just challenges me even more. OK, people are counting us out or people don't think we're going to be good. That right there just gives me an extra dose of [motivation]," Lue stated.
Looking Forward to the New Season
Despite these obstacles, the Clippers are gearing up to make a strong impression this season. The commencement of their training camp in Hawaii is a crucial step towards regrouping and strategizing for the challenges ahead. The team also eagerly anticipates inaugurating their new arena on October 23 against the Phoenix Suns, marking a significant milestone in the franchise's history.
The resilience and drive shown by both the coaching staff and players like Leonard epitomize the Clippers' unwavering spirit. As the season approaches, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this team, spurred by past disappointments and fueled by fresh motivation, navigates the road ahead.
With Lue's confidence in Leonard's physical condition and their collective resolve, the Clippers are poised to tackle the new season with vigor and determination. The forthcoming months promise to be a compelling chapter in the team's journey, as they aim to defy expectations and strive for success.