The Toronto Raptors announced Tuesday that Kawhi Leonard has completed a treatment to address left knee swelling and is beginning the “return to play process.”
The team said it will provide an update on Leonard’s progress in one week, which means the earliest he could play again is Nov. 11 against Boston.
Knee History and Recent Absence
The 35-year-old Leonard was sidelined by left knee swelling after appearing in just two regular-season games for Toronto. An MRI on the knee last month showed no structural damage.
Leonard has previously dealt with issues involving his right knee, undergoing multiple surgeries for his meniscus and ACL.
Early Production and Background
In two games this season, Leonard is averaging 19.5 points, 7.5 rebounds and 3.5 steals. He is in his first year back with the Raptors after being traded to Toronto from the LA Clippers this offseason, closing out six seasons in Los Angeles with a scandal-marred conclusion. He agreed to a two-year, $115 million contract extension with the Raptors after the trade.
Leonard previously spent one season in Toronto, leading the Raptors to their only NBA championship in 2019 before leaving for the Clippers in free agency.