Kawhi Leonard cleared to play for Clippers in Play-In game

The Clippers' star forward is set to return for a crucial matchup against the Warriors.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 11:30pm

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The Los Angeles Clippers will have their star player Kawhi Leonard available for their crucial Western Conference Play-In Tournament matchup against the Golden State Warriors on Wednesday night. Leonard had previously been listed on the Clippers' injury report but was removed, indicating he has been cleared to play in the high-stakes game.

Why it matters

The Clippers are fighting for their playoff lives in the Play-In Tournament, and having their best player Kawhi Leonard healthy and available is a major boost to their chances of advancing. Leonard's presence could be the difference-maker against a tough Warriors squad led by Stephen Curry.

The details

Kawhi Leonard had been listed as questionable on the Clippers' injury report leading up to the Play-In game, but the team has now removed him from the report, signaling that he will be able to suit up and play against the Warriors. Leonard has been dealing with a lingering knee issue that has kept him out of some games down the stretch, but it appears he has recovered enough to take the court for this pivotal matchup.

  • The Clippers and Warriors will face off on Wednesday, April 16, 2026.

The players

Kawhi Leonard

The star forward for the Los Angeles Clippers, a two-time NBA champion and two-time Finals MVP.

Golden State Warriors

The NBA team that the Clippers will be facing in the Western Conference Play-In Tournament.

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What they’re saying

“Having Kawhi back is huge for us. He's our best player and we need him out there if we want to keep our season going.”

— Paul George, Clippers guard

What’s next

The winner of the Clippers-Warriors Play-In game will advance to face the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference playoffs.

The takeaway

The Clippers' chances of advancing in the Play-In Tournament have been significantly boosted by the return of their star player Kawhi Leonard, who will provide a major lift against the formidable Warriors squad.