Kawhi Leonard’s Return Could Be the Game-Changer the Clippers Desperately Need Against Cavaliers Sunday

The Los Angeles Clippers have been stumbling through a nightmare stretch, dropping 9 out of their last 10 games — yeah, it’s been rough. But Saturday brought a spark of hope: Kawhi Leonard is set to step back into the lineup Sunday against Cleveland. This isn’t just a rumor; NBA insider Chris Haynes broke the news, and it’s since been echoed by other reliable sources. Leonard’s been sidelined for 10 games now with a stubborn foot and ankle sprain, so his return couldn’t come at a better time. The timing’s crucial, too, since he should be ready to face the Lakers in a high-stakes NBA Cup showdown — a game that’s absolutely worth tuning in for on NBC and Peacock. Before his injury, Leonard was a scoring machine, averaging 24.4 points on over 50% shooting, plus pulling down 5.7 boards per game. Coach Tyronn Lue’s been urging patience amid a tough 4-11 start and a spot near the bottom of the West standings. No first-round pick to count on here — that went to OKC in the Paul George trade — so tanking isn’t even in the cards. Lue’s mantra? “It’s not about how you start, it’s about how you finish.” Now with Leonard back, maybe it’s time for a new chapter… though the team’s still without Bradley Beal and Derrick Jones Jr., injuries that cloud the horizon. It’s a pivotal moment for the Clippers — can they turn things around? Only time will tell. LEARN MORE.