There is still no timetable for Kawhi Leonard's return from ACL injury, but it looks like there is a good chance the Los Angeles Clippers star could suit up at some point in the 2021-22 season.
Leonard has been out since the second round of the 2021 playoffs due to a partially torn ACL in his right knee. He underwent surgery in mid-July and has been recovering ever since, with his status still undetermined as the team headed to their training camp.
However, according to the latest report by Farbod Esnaashari of Sports Illustrated, Leonard is actually ahead of schedule in his rehab from ACL surgery. While this does not guarantee that he would be able to play in 2021-22, it does give the Clippers a ray of hope that they will be able to get Kawhi sooner rather than later.
Sources: Kawhi Leonard is currently ahead of schedule in his rehab from ACL surgery. While there’s no timetable and a return is a long ways away, the Clippers are cautiously optimistic about a return sometime this season.https://t.co/IqrdSlRXgo
— Farbod Esnaashari (@Farbod_E) October 2, 2021
For what it's worth, during the Clippers' recent media day, Kawhi Leonard himself left the door open for his potential return in 2021-22. He noted, though, that he is taking his recovery day-by-day.
On the other hand, Clippers owner Steve Ballmer did state previously that it's “possible” for Leonard to play in the upcoming season. Nonetheless, he and President of Basketball Operations Lawrence Frank later said they couldn't fully commit and guarantee that Kawhi will play since it's still too early to say.
Regardless, the news about Leonard being ahead of his recovery can only be good for the Clippers and their fans. With the way he is progressing, there is certainly reason for the “other” LA team to be optimistic about their title chances next season.
Of course it's unlikely for the Clippers to rush Leonard back given his injury history, but if he can be back before the playoffs, then that will surely be massive for the team.
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