James Harden is playing like it’s 2018 again for the Los Angeles Clippers but his efforts do not translate to a win. They are 2-8 in the last 10 and the worst part about it is that they still would not have Kawhi Leonard in the next few games.
The two-time MVP has been officially ruled out for their next game, which is against the Orlando Magic, as he is still recovering from his foot injury. This will be the ninth game that he will miss. This comes as several players complain about rotation and player commitment.
He is also not expected to play in weekend’s assignments when Clippers go on a three-game tour in four days.
“Star forward Kawhi Leonard has missed the last two weeks with an ankle sprain and foot sprain, and the Clippers are 1-6 without him,” The Athletic reported.
“Leonard is progressing from his ankle and foot sprains, and is on the trip with the Clippers as he ramps up towards a return, but he is not certain to play before the Clippers return to California after the weekend.”
Clippers’ next assignment are against the Magic on the road. They will continue to be away from Intuit Dome as they face the Charlotte Hornets and Cleveland Cavaliers on a back-to-back. Their last assignment before return to their arena is rivals Los Angeles Clippers.
Kawhi Leonard is not the only one missing
Derrick Jones Jr. is a fixture in almost all Clippers game this season. Unfortunately, he’ll have to miss at least six weeks following the injury he incurred in loss to the Boston Celtics two days ago.
Head coach Ty Lue said Jones is a huge loss for them on both the offensive and defensive ends.
“Everywhere,” Lue told reporters on Monday.
“I just think his athleticism, running the floor, being able to advance, attack in transition. Defensively, one of the best point of attack defenders in the league. Tough news today. But we’ll be with him every step of the way.”
Other major injuries for the team are Bradley Beal who just had a season-ending hip surgery and guard Jordan Miller.
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