The Los Angeles Clippers are facing elimination in Game 5 against the Phoenix Suns, as Kawhi Leonard, their superstar player, has been ruled out due to a sprained right knee. This unfortunate injury, which was reportedly aggravated in Game 1, caused Leonard to sit out Games 3 and 4, and will likely have a major impact on the Clippers’ chances of making a comeback. With Leonard in the lineup, the Clippers won Game 1 on the road and had the series tied 1-1 heading to Los Angeles. However, the Suns now hold a 3-1 series lead and are one win away from advancing to the NBA Finals. Paul George, another Clippers superstar, is also unavailable due to a right knee sprain. Leonard, a two-time NBA Finals MVP, averaged 34.5 points, 6.5 rebounds, and six assists through the first two games of the best-of-seven series. This injury is especially disappointing since Leonard missed all of last season while recovering from surgery for a torn right ACL.
