Ty Lue Gives Injury Updates on Kawhi Leonard
by Srinithi
Updated Aug 08, 2023
Ty Lue Gives Injury Updates on Kawhi Leonard
Over the course of the past three years under Ty Lue's leadership as head coach of the LA Clippers, either Kawhi Leonard, Paul George, or both, have faced season-ending injuries. Leonard suffered an ACL tear in 2021, George underwent UCL surgery in 2022 (while Leonard was still recovering), and in the previous season, Leonard's meniscus was torn while George was already dealing with a knee sprain.
This recurring pattern of injuries has become an annual concern for the Clippers, and they're hoping for a smoother season ahead. During a recent statement at the Team USA training camp, Ty Lue provided a positive update on the health of both Leonard and George, indicating that the two key players are fully recovered and prepared for training camp.Lue commented, "They're in good health now. Kawhi is on pace exactly where he needs to be, PG is healthy, so we're in a good place right now."
Since their arrival at the Clippers in 2019, Leonard and George have only played in approximately 41% of the team's games together. While the Clippers' cautious approach to managing their workload has played a role, the primary reason for their limited availability has been the significant injuries both players have faced.
With a more well-rounded roster compared to the previous season, the Clippers are content with their current situation. However, their future success remains closely tied to the overall health and fitness of these two star players
Who is Ty Lue ?
Tyronn Jamar Lue, born on May 3, 1977, is an American ex-professional basketball player and current coach. He currently holds the position of head coach for the Los Angeles Clippers in the National Basketball Association (NBA), having previously led the Cleveland Cavaliers to their inaugural NBA championship.
Formerly a point guard, Lue's basketball journey began in college with the Nebraska Cornhuskers. In the 1998 NBA draft, he was selected as the 23rd overall pick by the Denver Nuggets, but he was soon traded to the Los Angeles Lakers. During his time with the Lakers, Lue celebrated triumphs, securing two NBA championships in his initial three seasons.
After retiring from active play in 2009, Lue transitioned to the role of Director of Basketball Development for the Boston Celtics. His next career phase commenced in 2014 when he joined the Cavaliers as associate head coach. An elevation to head coach transpired during the 2015–16 season, succeeding David Blatt's departure. In that very season, Lue guided the Cavaliers to their maiden NBA championship, achieving a rare feat for a rookie coach.
Under Lue's leadership, the Cavaliers reached the NBA Finals in both the 2016–17 and 2017–18 seasons, only to be bested by the Golden State Warriors. However, in October 2018, Cleveland opted to part ways with Lue. Subsequently, he took the reins as head coach of the Clippers, steering them to their inaugural appearance in the Conference finals.
Who is Kawhi Leonard ?
Kawhi Anthony Leonard, born on June 29, 1991, is an American professional basketball athlete who currently plays for the Los Angeles Clippers in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Boasting a two-time NBA championship title, he stands as a five-time All-Star and a five-time inclusion in the All-NBA Team (which features three First Team selections).
Recognized as the "Claw" or "Klaw" due to his remarkable ball-stealing abilities and unusually large hands, he has secured seven All-Defensive Team nods and earned Defensive Player of the Year accolades in both 2015 and 2016. His achievements were further acknowledged with his inclusion in the NBA 75th Anniversary Team in 2021.
Before his professional journey, Leonard contributed two seasons to college basketball with the San Diego State Aztecs, achieving the status of a consensus second-team All-American during his sophomore year. Opting to forego his final two college seasons, he entered the 2011 NBA draft, becoming the 15th overall pick by the Indiana Pacers before swiftly being traded to the San Antonio Spurs on draft night.
Within the Spurs, Leonard celebrated an NBA championship victory in 2014, simultaneously earning the title of Finals Most Valuable Player. After an impressive seven-year tenure with the Spurs, he transitioned to the Toronto Raptors in 2018.
It was with the Raptors in 2019 that he propelled the team to their inaugural NBA championship, clinching his second Finals MVP award (joining Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and LeBron James as one of only three players to achieve this distinction with multiple teams). Subsequently, he ventured back to his hometown of Los Angeles, solidifying his place with the Clippers by signing as a free agent in July 2019.
Ty Lue Professional career
Los Angeles Lakers (1998–2001)
Opting for early entry into the 1998 NBA draft, Lue was chosen as the 23rd overall pick by the Denver Nuggets. However, he was promptly traded to the Los Angeles Lakers alongside Tony Battie in exchange for Nick Van Exel. His initial three years with the Lakers were underwhelming, marked by limited playing time and injuries in 2000.
Washington Wizards (2001–2003)
In the subsequent off-season of 2001, Lue inked a deal with the Washington Wizards. This move granted him more substantial playing opportunities, subsequently enhancing his role as a point guard.
Orlando Magic (2003–2004)
Lue donned the Orlando Magic jersey during the 2003–04 season, sharing the court with Tracy McGrady. Despite their pairing, the team's performance suffered, ending with the poorest record in the NBA at 21–61.
Houston Rockets (2004)
Post-season, Lue, McGrady, Juwan Howard, and Reece Gaines transitioned to the Houston Rockets after a trade involving Steve Francis, Cuttino Mobley, and Kelvin Cato. Yet, his playing time dwindled due to the abundance of point guards on the Rockets' roster.
Atlanta Hawks (2004–2008)
Mid-season, Lue found himself traded to the Atlanta Hawks for Jon Barry. Despite his individual efforts, the Hawks registered the worst record in the NBA, leaving a mark as their franchise's weakest season at 13–69.August 30, 2005, marked Lue's re-signing with the Hawks.[8]
Dallas Mavericks (2008)
Lue's path led him to the Sacramento Kings on February 16, 2008, in a trade involving Mike Bibby. Subsequently waived by the Kings on February 28, 2008, he joined the Dallas Mavericks on March 4 after clearing waivers.[9]
Milwaukee Bucks (2008–2009)
On July 17, 2008, the Milwaukee Bucks welcomed Lue onto their roster.[10]
Return to the Magic (2009)
The Orlando Magic brought Lue back on February 5, 2009, through a trade involving Keith Bogans and cash considerations.[11] Lue's final year as an NBA player coincided with the Orlando Magic's advance to the 2009 Finals, although they ultimately succumbed to defeat against Lue's former team, the Los Angeles Lakers.
Kawhi Leonard Professional career
As of 2011, NBA scouts acknowledged Leonard's strong work ethic and impressive physical attributes, describing him as a "physical marvel" with a 6'7" height, 7'3" wingspan, and 11-inch hands. However, his playing style was deemed challenging to define.
During his entry into the league, Leonard was recognized more for his defensive prowess and rebounding skills than his offensive capabilities. His defensive abilities led to comparisons with players like Metta World Peace and Gerald Wallace, while concerns were raised about his outside shooting.
San Antonio Spurs (2011–2018)
In the 2011 NBA draft, Leonard was initially picked 15th overall by the Indiana Pacers but was traded to the San Antonio Spurs alongside Erazem Lorbek and Dāvis Bertāns in exchange for George Hill. He signed a multi-year deal with the Spurs in December 2011.
Predicting his future stardom, Spurs coach Gregg Popovich praised Leonard's dedication and potential, foreseeing him becoming a pivotal player on both ends of the court.
During the 2012 Rising Stars Challenge, Leonard was selected alongside teammate Tiago Splitter but couldn't play due to an injury. Following a lineup change, Leonard assumed the starting small forward position for the Spurs.
In his rookie year, Leonard secured fourth place in the Rookie of the Year voting and earned a spot on the 2012 NBA All-Rookie First Team.
Leonard participated in the 2012 USA men's basketball Select Team, training alongside NBA legends like Kobe Bryant and LeBron James.
In subsequent seasons, Leonard continued to excel with the Spurs, contributing to their journey to the NBA Finals. He achieved career-high scores and showcased his defensive prowess during critical games.
In the 2014 NBA Finals against the Miami Heat, Leonard's exceptional performance, including a career-high 29 points in Game 3, earned him the NBA Finals MVP title. He became one of the youngest players to win the award and was the sixth player to do so without being selected as an All-Star in the same season.
Ty Lue Gives Injury Updates on Kawhi Leonard-FAQ
Over the past three years, one or both of Kawhi Leonard and Paul George have faced season-ending injuries, becoming a persistent concern for the Clippers.
Leonard suffered an ACL tear in 2021, George had UCL surgery in 2022 (while Leonard was still recovering), and Leonard tore his meniscus while George dealt with a knee sprain.
Lue mentioned at the Team USA training camp that both Leonard and George are fully recovered and ready for the upcoming training camp, putting the Clippers in a favourable position.
Since their arrival, Leonard and George have played in around 41% of the team's games together due to injuries and careful management of their workload.
Despite a more balanced roster, the Clippers' future success still hinges on the overall health and fitness of Leonard and George, which has a significant impact on their performance.