The Cleveland Cavaliers fell short in their Game 1 of the playoff against the Denver Nuggets on Saturday night. Despite Kawhi Leonard being available and active for the game, his performance lacked his usual intensity, and he could not steer the Clippers to victory.
The Clippers are now set for Game 2 of the series, which is scheduled for Monday. As reported by Tomer Azarly, encouraging news is coming from the team’s camp. The team currently has no injuries listed for the Clippers, which means Leonard is expected to suit up once again.
The LA Clippers have no injuries to report.
— Tomer Azarly (@TomerAzarly) April 20, 2025
Kawhi Leonard, James Harden, and Co. are all expected to be available for Game 2 vs. Nikola Jokic and the Nuggets tomorrow.
Leonard has shown strong form since returning from injury earlier this season. He wrapped up the regular season, averaging 21.5 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game. Leonard has played a crucial role in the Clippers’ postseason qualification.
As for the Nuggets, they’ve listed Aaron Gordon as probable due to right calf injury management. Meanwhile, DaRon Holmes II remains out as he recovers from a right Achilles tendon repair.
Ivica Zubac Defends Kawhi Leonard’s Calm Game 1 Approach
Following the Clippers’ Game 1 loss, questions began to swirl about Kawhi Leonard’s subdued presence on the floor as he appeared more restrained than usual in the series opener. Teammate Ivica Zubac was asked on Sunday if Game 1 was the least aggressive version of Leonard fans have seen this season. However, Zubac didn’t hesitate to support his star teammate.
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“Sometimes that might be a pass, sometimes that might be a shot. But he’s a big time player who makes big time plays and I’m sure he knows what he did well, what he didn’t, and I’m sure he’s going to make adjustments on his own and be better in Game 2 like we all are,” Zubac said.
In his first playoff appearance against Denver this postseason, Leonard logged 41 minutes. He contributed 22 points, six rebounds, three assists, and two steals. He shot 9-for-15 from the field and 1-of-3 from beyond the arc.
