The most surprising storyline of the 2017-18 NBA season is Kawhi Leonard's injury and how the San Antonio Spurs have handled the situation. After missing the start of the season, Leonard returned for only nine games and it is unclear what his status is as the playoffs approach.
During this process, there have been conflicting reports. The latest one from Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN revealed the 26-year-old returned to New York to continue his rehab. When asked about Wojnarowski's report, head coach Gregg Popovich had the following to say according to Mike Wright of ESPN:
Pop basically said no status change for Kawhi Leonard. He also sort of shot down the notion Leonard visited NY solely to obtain medical clearance. "When he & his group feel he's ready, he'll be ready."
— Michael C. Wright (@mikecwright) April 1, 2018
With just six games remaining in the regular season, the Spurs have been operating as if Leonard will not return. As a result, they have won seven of their last nine games as LaMarcus Aldridge has stepped up tremendously, averaging 26.1 points and 9.0 rebounds in March.
After briefly being out of the playoff race, San Antonio is currently the fourth spot (44-32) in the Western Conference following the winning streak. However, only one game separates them from the New Orleans Pelicans, who are currently the eighth and final spot.
With the Spurs looking to extend their incredible 20-year playoff run, their final regular season game against the Pelicans on Apr. 11 could have a lot of implications. As homecourt advantage is always nice, the Spurs will look to surprise basketball fans — with or without Leonard.
Leonard is averaging 16.2 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 2.3 assists this season.
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