As the Los Angeles Clippers gear up for their training camp set to begin on October 1 in Honolulu, Hawaii, all eyes are on star forward Kawhi Leonard. Head coach Ty Lue is optimistic about Leonard's participation, affirming that the player will be ready despite his recent struggles with knee issues.
Ty Lue Confident in Leonard's Readiness
"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 stated confidently. This declaration sets a hopeful tone for the Clippers' upcoming season, following a period marked by Leonard's knee problems.
Leonard's knee issues notably sidelined him for the final eight regular-season games last season due to inflammation, and his absence was deeply felt as the Clippers fought through significant playoff matchups against the Dallas Mavericks. His health was a key area of concern heading into the offseason.
Olympic Exclusion Disappointment
Leonard's recent involvement with Team USA ahead of the Tokyo Olympics added another layer to his complex summer. Participating in a mini-camp in Las Vegas, Leonard seemed poised to make a mark on the international stage. However, Team USA decided against including him in the final roster, opting instead to replace him with Boston Celtics guard Derrick White, a decision that drew the ire of Clippers president Lawrence Frank.
"It was USAB's call, and I was, quite frankly, very disappointed with the decision. Kawhi wanted to play. We wanted him to play. I was there the first two practices. He looked very good. Participated, was a full participant in everything that they did," Frank expressed, underscoring the Clippers’ frustration.
Frank further articulated his perspective, emphasizing the organization’s familiarity with Leonard's physical condition. “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 remarked.
Adjusting Without Paul George
Leonard's situation is not the only notable change for the Clippers this offseason. The departure of Paul George to the Philadelphia 76ers in free agency marks a significant shift in the team dynamics. This leaves a substantial gap to be filled within the roster, challenging the Clippers to adapt strategically.
Ty Lue acknowledges the impact of losing a player of George's caliber but is motivated by the challenge it presents. "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 asserted.
Looking Ahead to the New Season
Despite the uncertainties, the Clippers have their sights set on a fresh start, with their training camp in Honolulu marking the beginning of what they hope will be a successful season. The anticipation will only build as they prepare to inaugurate their new arena on October 23 with a home game against the Phoenix Suns, a matchup that promises to be a thrilling spectacle for fans and players alike.
As the Clippers navigate these transitions and challenges, the focus remains on Kawhi Leonard’s health and readiness, the team’s adaptation to roster changes, and the overarching goal of clinching success in the upcoming season. With Ty Lue’s determined leadership and a roster ready to prove its mettle, the Clippers are poised for an intriguing and potentially rewarding journey ahead.