Clippers' Kawhi Leonard Ruled Out vs. Timberwolves

Ankle soreness sidelines star forward for Thursday night's game

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard has been ruled out of Thursday's game against the Minnesota Timberwolves due to left ankle soreness. Leonard has been a bright spot for the struggling Clippers, averaging 30.1 points and 2.1 steals per game since December 20. However, with the Clippers having a light schedule over the next week, the team is likely giving Leonard a rest before a busy stretch of games in early March.

Why it matters

Leonard's absence is a significant blow for the Clippers, who have been relying on his stellar play to keep them competitive this season. The team will need other players to step up in his absence, particularly young wing Bennedict Mathurin, who has shown promise since joining the Clippers.

The details

Leonard was ruled out just hours before Thursday's 10:10 p.m. ET tipoff against the Timberwolves. It's unclear if this is a new injury or just regular maintenance, but the Clippers have not played since February 22, when Leonard had 37 points, two blocks, and three steals in a loss to the Orlando Magic. With the Clippers not playing again until March 1, the team may simply be giving Leonard some rest before a busy upcoming stretch.

  • Leonard was ruled out on Thursday, February 26, 2026 for the game against the Timberwolves.
  • The Clippers have not played since February 22, 2026.

The players

Kawhi Leonard

A star forward for the Los Angeles Clippers who has been a bright spot in an otherwise disappointing season for the team.

Bennedict Mathurin

A young wing player for the Clippers who is expected to see an increased role with Leonard out and has shown promise since joining the team.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Kawhi can only miss four more games in order to remain above the 65-game threshold, and he's been ruled out for tonight's 10:10 p.m. ET game against the Minnesota Timberwolves while dealing with left ankle soreness.”

— Griffin Wong, Author (draftkings.com)

What’s next

The Clippers will next play on March 1, 2026, giving Leonard additional time to rest his ankle before a busy upcoming stretch.

The takeaway

Leonard's absence is a significant blow for the struggling Clippers, but it also provides an opportunity for young players like Bennedict Mathurin to step up and contribute. The team's ability to weather Leonard's absence could be crucial to their chances of turning around their disappointing season.