Kawhi Leonard was a late scratch for Sunday’s game against the Minnesota Timberwolves, getting pulled in the hour before tip-off because of swelling in his left knee. The Raptors didn’t drop any more deets on what’s going on, just that knee swelling is the problem.
This Isn’t The First Time For That Left Knee
Here’s the kicker, though: this isn’t the first time that specific left knee has been an issue. Just last season, when he was with the Clippers, irritation in that same left knee sent Leonard home from a road trip. He ended up missing three games before he could get back on the court. So yeah, seeing “swelling in his left knee” pop up again? That’s definitely got fans feeling a little on edge.
Not The Big One, But Still A Worry
Now, the good news, if you can call it that, is this isn’t the knee that’s required reconstructive surgery. We all remember the serious injuries, the ACL and meniscus tears, that he had in his *right* knee, which kept him out for significant stretches. But just because it’s not *that* knee doesn’t mean it’s not a major concern. Any knee issue for a player like Kawhi, with his track record, is going to raise eyebrows.
Right now, the Raptors and their entire fanbase are just crossing their fingers, hoping this swelling doesn’t linger. They’re all banking on Leonard getting back into the lineup ASAP. Because when you’ve got a talent like Kawhi, every game he’s out is a gut punch, and history just makes this one sting a little more.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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