Kawhi Leonard’s return to Toronto has began off with a acquainted really feel.
Just two video games into the two-time NBA champion’s return to Canada, Leonard, whose signing by the Clippers resulted in the franchise being punished for salary-cap circumvention before getting traded back to Raptors, is out indefinitely with a swollen knee.
An MRI revealed that Leonard has no structural injury, and it will be about relaxation and rehab to get him back on the courtroom.
“Yeah it’s always frustrating missing time,” Leonard wrote in an X put up Tuesday afternoon. “I came back to compete with this team and I’m focused on getting back to 100. Toronto, I’ve appreciated the love since I’ve been back. Returning soon.”
Kawhi Leonard #2 of the Toronto Raptors dribbles the ball during a recreation against the Washington Wizards at Capital One Arena in Washington, DC, Friday, Oct. 23, 2026. NBAE via Getty Images
Leonard, 35, has had issues with his left knee before, lacking time last season with what was called irritation.
This is not the same knee that he’s had surgically repaired a number of instances, as he tore his proper ACL in 2021 and later his meniscus in 2023.
Leonard missed Sunday’s loss to the Timberwolves after being a late scratch due to fluid buildup around his knee joint.
The star ahead has not performed more than 70 video games in a season since the 2016-17 season when he was a member of theSpurs.
It is unclear how much time he will miss, though ESPN’s Shams Charania called it a “period of weeks,” making it virtually certain that Leonard will not play 70 video games again this 12 months.
This also makes it unlikely he will be featured in any awards or All-NBA groups, as these principally require at least 65 video games performed.
Toronto Raptors ahead Kawhi Leonard, center, appears to be like on during the second half of an NBA basketball recreation against the Minnesota Timberwolves in Minneapolis, Sunday, Oct. 25, 2026. AP Photo/Bailey Hillesheim
Leonard obtained a slight advantageous this offseason as punishment for his salary-cap circumvention scheme alongside his Uncle Dennis.
Clippers proprietor Steve Ballmer was fined $30 million and banned from the team for a 12 months as a outcome of the transgressions.
The Raptors will rely closely on former Knicks RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley to assist them exchange some of the offensive manufacturing lost with Leonard’s absence.
Scottie Barnes will be the team’s point of interest as their lead wing.
The Raptors are 2-1, with both wins coming while Leonard performed restricted minutes, topping out at 28 minutes spanning these two appearances.
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