The NBA Playoffs are underway, but for the Los Angeles Clippers, uncertainty looms over the availability of star forward Kawhi Leonard due to ongoing concerns about his health.
Since April 1, Leonard has been sidelined with “right knee inflammation,” raising questions about his participation in the Clippers’ first-round series against the Mavericks.
The absence of Leonard could significantly impact the Clippers’ playoff aspirations, as the two-time Finals MVP is instrumental to their success, boasting impressive season averages of 23.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.6 steals per game.
Is Kawhi Leonard playing tonight?
While the Clippers have listed Leonard as questionable, head coach Ty Lue provided some insight into Leonard’s condition, stating that Leonard has been participating in shooting drills but has not yet received clearance for contact.
Teammate Paul George’s comments further cast doubt on Leonard’s availability, suggesting that Leonard may not be ready for Game 1.
Leonard’s absence has been felt before, as the Clippers went 7-7 in the 14 games he missed during the regular season.
What channel is Clippers vs. Mavericks?
- Date: Sunday, April 21
- TV channel: ABC
- Live streaming: Sling TV
The highly anticipated Game 1 between the Clippers and Mavericks will air on ABC. Viewers can also catch the action via live streaming on Sling TV.
What time is Clippers vs. Mavericks tonight?
- Date: Sunday, April 21
- Time: 3:30 p.m. ET | 12:30 p.m. PT
The game is set to tip off at 3:30 p.m. ET from Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.
Mavericks vs. Clippers schedule
The series will feature alternating home and away games, with Games 1, 2, 5, and 7 taking place in Los Angeles, and Games 3, 4, and 6 scheduled for Dallas. Here’s the complete schedule:
- Game 1: April 21, 3:30 p.m. ET, ABC, Sling
- Game 2: April 23, 10 p.m. ET, TNT, Sling
- Game 3: April 26, 8 p.m. ET, ESPN, Sling
- Game 4: April 28, 3:30 p.m. ET, ABC, Sling
- Game 5: May 1, TBD
- Game 6: May 3, TBD
- Game 7: May 5, TBD
With the series set to unfold, all eyes will be on Leonard’s availability and its impact on the Clippers’ postseason journey.