Overview

• Kawhi Leonard has not played since March 31 due to knee inflammation, raising concerns about his readiness for the playoffs.
• Despite conflicting reports, Clippers officials and NBA insiders offer mixed views on Leonard's condition, with some expressing significant concern.
• Leonard's absence could significantly impact the Clippers' performance, given his pivotal role in past playoff successes against the Mavericks.
• The Clippers have clinched their first Pacific Division title in a decade and secured the fourth seed in the Western Conference.
• Leonard's health issues have been a recurring theme, including major injuries in previous seasons that sidelined him during critical playoff runs.