Clippers President ‘Really Disappointed’ Kawhi Leonard Wasn’t Given More Time By Team USA

Kawhi Leonards dream of donning the Team USA jersey for one last time ended unexpectedly.

Although The Klaw was initially called up for the 2024 Paris Olympics, the management ultimately decided to replace him with Derrick White.

Nearly three months later, Lawrence Frank, the President of the Los Angeles Clippers, weighed in on the situation.

Frank admitted that Leonard was dealing with right knee swelling at that time.

However, he also pointed out how the 2x champion had received medical clearance to join the Team USA roster for the Las Vegas training camp.

The Clippers President consequently felt that the 33-year-old deserved more consideration from management.

Concerns first arose in early April.

Leonard missed eight regular season games with a right knee inflammation.

It also led to him being sidelined for three crucial first-round playoff games against the Mavericks.

The severity of his condition led many to speculate that the 6x All-Star might struggle to regain his strength before the team camp in early July.

Leonard defied the odds and landed in Las Vegas with a sleeve on his right leg.

Even though the Clippers star limped slightly, he was involved in the first four days of practice.

However, this failed to convince Grant Hill, Team USA executive director.

He eventually excluded The Klaw from the Olympic roster and later provided a statement, saying, Both Frank and Hill were correct in their ways.

For context, Hill tried to assemble the best possible roster for the Olympics.

Given the circumstances, he believed a defensive enforcer like White was more reliable than an unfit Leonard.

At the same time, Frank prioritized the best interests of the Clippers talisman.

While he failed to do so in that instance, he seemed determined to make it happen in the coming season.

What did Frank say about Leonards future? During the press conference, Frank candidly outlined the Clippers approach regarding Leonards recovery in the coming days.

He pointed out that the franchise has no intention of rushing him back onto the court.

They want to give him ample time to resume his on-court endeavors.

This further showcased the Clippers focus on building their team around Leonard.

The NBA star also sided with this approach by signing a three-year, $150 million contract extension..

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