NBA1 hour ago1 minute read

Kawhi Leonard Cleared for Return to Play Process After Knee Treatment

Kawhi Leonard completed treatment on his left knee and has begun the return to play process in Toronto.

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Treatment complete for Raptors forward

Kawhi Leonard has finished a treatment program to address swelling in his left knee. The Toronto Raptors announced on Tuesday that their forward has now entered the return to play process in Toronto.

The franchise confirmed that Leonard will undergo a reevaluation in one week. The Raptors will issue their next official status update after that reevaluation takes place. Leonard was sidelined after playing in only two regular season games for the Raptors this year. The team had an MRI taken on his left knee last month, which showed no structural damage.

Injury history and performance stats

The current injury is specifically in Leonard's left knee. He has experienced health issues on his right knee in the past. Those right knee problems led to multiple surgical procedures to repair his meniscus and ACL.

Despite his limited time on the court this season, the 35 year old player was productive in his brief appearances. Across his two games played, Leonard averaged 19.5 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 3.5 steals per contest for Toronto.

Background on his return to Toronto

This season marks Leonard's first year back in Toronto following an offseason trade from the Clippers. His departure from Los Angeles came after a scandal marred conclusion to his six seasons with that organization.

Following the trade, Leonard agreed to a two year contract extension with the Raptors valued at $115 million. Leonard previously spent one single season playing for Toronto. During that initial tenure, he led the Raptors to the only NBA championship in franchise history in 2019 before he departed for the Clippers in free agency.

What it means for the next game

Toronto Raptors at Denver Nuggets (NBA, Thu, 05 Nov): Denver Nuggets win 61%, Toronto Raptors win 39%; projected score Denver Nuggets 118, Toronto Raptors 115. Our safest pick: Raptors +12.5.

Toronto Raptors at Milwaukee Bucks (NBA, Sat, 07 Nov): Milwaukee Bucks win 29%, Toronto Raptors win 71%; projected score Milwaukee Bucks 113, Toronto Raptors 119. Our safest pick: Raptors +1.5.