Los Angeles Clippers Kawhi Leonard
Getty
Kawhi Leonard #2 of the Los Angeles Clippers looks on during a game against the Golden State Warriors at Intuit Dome on January 05, 2026 in Inglewood, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)
The Los Angeles Clippers may be facing another setback at the worst possible time.
Star forward Kawhi Leonard is listed as questionable for Thursday’s rematch against the New Orleans Pelicans due to a left ankle sprain, placing his availability in doubt for the second half of a back-to-back set.
The update comes less than 24 hours after Leonard suited up in Wednesday’s 124-109 loss — a game in which he appeared visibly limited despite finishing with 25 points.
Leonard Shows Signs of Discomfort in Loss
While Leonard’s stat line suggested productivity, his performance told a different story.
The two-time Finals MVP struggled to assert himself offensively, taking just six two-point attempts and three free throws, both significantly below his season norms. He was also seen wincing at various points during the game and showed limited explosiveness attacking the rim.
Los Angeles built an early 18-point lead but could not sustain it, as New Orleans stormed back behind strong shooting and transition play.
Clippers Slide Continues Amid Injury Concerns
The loss marked the Clippers’ third straight defeat, dropping them to 34-35 and below .500 at a critical juncture of the season.
Despite the skid, Los Angeles remains in the No. 8 spot in the Western Conference standings — but only by a narrow margin. The Portland Trail Blazers are just half a game behind, increasing the stakes for Thursday’s rematch.
Another loss could push the Clippers into the ninth seed, further complicating their postseason outlook.
Heavy Workload Raises Risk in Back-to-Back
Leonard’s questionable status is particularly significant given the scheduling context.
The Clippers opted to play both Leonard and Darius Garland in the first leg of the back-to-back, despite both players carrying questionable designations entering Wednesday’s game.
Garland has yet to play both ends of a back-to-back since joining Los Angeles, and Leonard had already missed Monday’s loss to the San Antonio Spurs due to the same ankle issue.
With fatigue and lingering injury concerns now in play, the Clippers may have to make a difficult decision on Leonard’s availability.
Potential Rotation Impact if Leonard Sits
If Leonard is ultimately ruled out, the Clippers could turn to depth options such as Derrick Jones Jr. and Kobe Sanders to fill minutes in the frontcourt.
However, replacing Leonard’s two-way impact would be a significant challenge for a team already struggling to maintain consistency.
Pelicans Riding Momentum Into Rematch
Meanwhile, New Orleans enters Thursday’s game with momentum.
The Pelicans have now won six straight at home and nine of their last 13 games, powered by a balanced offensive attack. Saddiq Bey led the way with 25 points on Wednesday, while Trey Murphy III added 23.
The Pelicans erased an early deficit and took control in the second half, showcasing the type of resilience that could again challenge a short-handed Clippers squad.
Playoff Race Intensifies
With just over a dozen games remaining, every result carries weight in the crowded Western Conference race.
The Clippers’ grip on a playoff spot is becoming increasingly fragile, and Leonard’s health looms as the defining variable.
If he is unable to go Thursday — or continues to play at less than full strength — Los Angeles may find itself slipping further down the standings at the worst possible time.
For now, Leonard’s status remains uncertain.
And for the Clippers, so does everything else.