Kawhi Leonard's Shocking Injury Update: Will LA's Season Crumble Without Him?

The Los Angeles Clippers started their East Coast road trip with a disappointing 123-111 loss to the New York Knicks, dropping their season record to 13-23. Despite this setback, the Clippers hold onto hopes for improvement, particularly with a favorable schedule leading up to the trade deadline. Their upcoming game against the Brooklyn Nets, who currently sit at 11-23, could provide a much-needed opportunity to get back on track.

However, the Clippers' path to victory may be complicated by the health of star forward Kawhi Leonard. The team announced that Leonard is dealing with a right ankle sprain, making him questionable for the Friday matchup against the Nets. The injury occurred during the third quarter when Leonard attempted a fadeaway shot. Although he finished the game, he struggled significantly afterward, missing all four of his field goals in the fourth quarter.

Here's where Leonard injured his ankle. Made 10/16 FGs for 25 points through 3 quarters. Subbed out after this bucket

Played in 4th quarter until garbage time but missed all 4 shots. Kawhi didn't mention it postgame but same foot that cost Kawhi most of November https://t.co/I3TCl8XpTZ pic.twitter.com/He0D1PWTZw

— Law Murray 🐐 (@LawMurrayTheNU) January 8, 2026

Leonard's recent form has been impressive, especially after he missed ten games earlier this season due to an ankle sprain on the same foot. During his absence, the Clippers struggled, finishing with a 2-8 record. Fans are understandably anxious about the prospect of Leonard missing additional games, as his presence on the court is critical for the team’s success.

While it is a positive sign that Leonard did not mention the injury in his post-game interview and is listed as merely questionable rather than out, caution is warranted. The Clippers have leaned heavily on both Leonard and James Harden for offensive production, pushing Leonard to play nearly 40 minutes per game. With the team already missing key players such as Bradley Beal, Chris Paul, and Bogdan Bogdanovic, the absence of either Leonard or Harden for an extended period could be detrimental to their season.

In addition to Leonard's status, the Clippers have confirmed that Beal, Bogdanovic, Paul, and Derrick Jones Jr. will be out for the upcoming game against the Nets. As a result, Coach Ty Lue is expected to rely heavily on his starters, as well as bench players like Jordan Miller and Kobe Sanders.

The Nets are coming into this game without major injuries, listing only rookie Ben Saraf, Haywood Highsmith, and EJ Liddell as out. Michael Porter Jr. is on the injury report with right knee soreness but is listed as probable. After losing four of their last five games, the Nets view the Clippers matchup as an opportunity to regain momentum.

As the Clippers prepare for this crucial game, all eyes will be on Kawhi Leonard. His ability to play could be the difference between a much-needed victory and further struggles in what has already been a challenging season.