Clippers Announce Kawhi Leonard Suffers Ankle Sprain

Superstar forward injured in loss to Kings, status uncertain for upcoming games

Mar. 15, 2026 at 6:04am

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Los Angeles Clippers star Kawhi Leonard left Saturday's game against the Sacramento Kings with a left ankle sprain. Leonard had been playing well, scoring 31 points in the first 26 minutes, but landed awkwardly in the fourth quarter and had to be ruled out for the remainder of the contest. The Clippers later announced Leonard's injury diagnosis, raising concerns about his availability for upcoming games as the team fights for a playoff spot.

Why it matters

Leonard is the Clippers' best player and a key part of their push for the postseason. Any extended absence due to the ankle sprain could significantly impact the team's chances of making the playoffs in a competitive Western Conference. The Clippers do not own their first-round draft pick this year, so they have extra incentive to qualify for the playoffs.

The details

Leonard was having another standout performance against the Kings, scoring 31 points on 13-of-23 shooting with 6 rebounds and 2 steals in the first 26 minutes. However, he suffered a laceration in the first half that briefly sent him to the locker room, and then landed awkwardly in the fourth quarter, immediately heading to the bench before being subbed out. The Clippers later announced that Leonard had been diagnosed with a left ankle sprain and would miss the remainder of the game.

  • Leonard suffered the ankle injury in the fourth quarter of the Clippers' game against the Kings on March 15, 2026.
  • The Clippers announced Leonard's left ankle sprain diagnosis after the game.

The players

Kawhi Leonard

A seven-time NBA All-Star, six-time All-NBA selection, two-time Defensive Player of the Year, and two-time NBA champion, Leonard is the Clippers' superstar forward and one of the league's premier two-way players.

Kris Dunn

The Clippers guard who subbed in for Leonard after he left the game with the ankle injury.

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What’s next

The Clippers will monitor Leonard's recovery and provide updates on his status leading up to their next game against the San Antonio Spurs on Monday, March 17, 2026.

The takeaway

Kawhi Leonard's ankle sprain is a significant concern for the Clippers as they fight to secure a playoff spot in the competitive Western Conference. Any extended absence for their superstar could severely impact the team's postseason chances, especially since they do not own their first-round draft pick this year.