Los Angeles Clippers head coach Ty Lue is exuding confidence as the team gears up for their training camp set to commence on October 1 in Honolulu, Hawaii. The spotlight is firmly on star forward Kawhi Leonard, who is expected to be back on the court, after a challenging season plagued by knee problems.
Leonard's knee issues were significant enough to sideline him for the final eight regular-season games last year, causing much concern among Clippers fans and the management. His absence was notably felt during crucial playoff matchups against the Dallas Mavericks, where his presence could have potentially changed the dynamics of the series.
Despite these setbacks, Leonard showed signs of recovery and readiness over the summer. He participated in a mini-camp with Team USA in Las Vegas ahead of the Tokyo Olympics, a move that offered a glimmer of hope. However, despite his earnest efforts, Leonard was ultimately replaced by Boston Celtics guard Derrick White for the Olympic roster, a decision that did not sit well with Clippers' brass.
Lawrence Frank, the Clippers’ president, voiced his disappointment clearly. "It was USAB's call, and I was, quite frankly, very disappointed with the decision. Kawhi wanted to play. We wanted him to play. I was there the first two practices. He looked very good. Participated, was a full participant in everything that they did," Frank shared.
Frank further stressed his belief in Leonard's readiness. "I expressed to them, I really wish that they would have given Kawhi more time. We have the benefit of having been around Kawhi for five years to see his body and see where he's at. So, he looked good to me," he added.
The Clippers face an element of uncertainty as they adjust to the loss of Paul George, who left the team for the Philadelphia 76ers in free agency. This departure necessitates a reassessment of strategies moving forward, and Ty Lue appears prepared for the challenge. "When you lose a guy of Paul George's stature, instantly people [think] oh, they can't win or they're not going to be competitive. But that just challenges me even more. OK, people are counting us out or people don't think we're going to be good. That right there just gives me an extra dose of [motivation]," Lue asserted.
Looking towards the immediate future, the Clippers are not only focused on training camp but are also anticipating the christening of their new arena. The first game in this state-of-the-art venue is scheduled for October 23 against the Phoenix Suns, a debut that is sure to be loaded with expectations and excitement.
The anticipation surrounding Leonard's return and the opening of the new arena are intertwined, symbolizing a fresh start and a renewed sense of determination for the Clippers. Lue's frequent communications with Leonard have bolstered his confidence in the player’s readiness. "I speak to him all the time. He'll be ready for [Clippers] training camp. He's feeling good and I know he'll be ready for training camp," Lue affirmed.
As the Clippers head to Honolulu, they carry with them a mix of hope, determination, and a clear focus on what's ahead. All eyes will be on Kawhi Leonard, as his performance and health will be critical to the team's success in the upcoming season. The absence of Paul George adds another layer of complexity, but it also presents an opportunity for other players to step up and fill the gap. For Ty Lue and Lawrence Frank, the overarching message is one of confidence and preparedness as they navigate these changes.