San Antonio Spurs coach Gregg Popovich does not sound optimistic about Kawhi Leonard's return for the stretch run.
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Asked about Leonard's progress during Thursday's (AEDT) practice, Popovich said, "I'd be surprised if he returns this season."
Asked to clarify why he feels that way, Popovich said, “Well, we only have X number of games left in the season and he’s still not ready to go."
Here is the Popovich comments on Kawhi. Not ready to say he’s out for the season...just would be surprised. So, there’s that ... pic.twitter.com/C22ntHgbOY
— Jabari Young (@JabariJYoung) February 21, 2018
"If by some chance he is it’s going to be pretty late into the season and it’ll be a tough decision how late you bring somebody back. That’s why I’m trying to be honest and logical. I’ll be surprised if he gets back this year.”
Leonard has not played since Jan. 13 and has appeared in just nine games this season while battling a lingering tendinopathy issue in his right quadricep.
Despite Leonard's absence, the Spurs are 35-24 and currently hold the No. 3 seed in the Western Conference with 23 games left in the regular season.
Leonard has been out of the lineup since Jan. 13 dealing with a quad injury. He averaged 16.2 points and 4.7 rebounds per game this season before suffering a setback. According to ESPN, Leonard has been medically cleared to return but has elected against returning to the active roster. His timetable for a return has caused tension within the organization and could impact his future in San Antonio.
Popovich was unwilling to completely rule Leonard out for the remainder of the season, but isn't very optimistic the two-time All-Star would see the court again this season.
