It is not the battle of the averages tonight! Coming from the same city, the Los Angeles Clippers reflect a contrasting position to that of the Lakers (despite not much difference in the wins), but now they are on the verge of something big. With the playoffs inching closer and the Western Conference race tighter than ever, every game counts—especially when it’s against a heavyweight opponent like the Dallas Mavericks. Fans heading to the Intuit Dome or tuning in from home tonight have one burning question on their minds: Will Kawhi Leonard suit up? Because for the Clippers to crack the top 6, his presence makes a big difference.
The stakes couldn’t be higher. The Clippers have surged at the right time, winning 10 of their last 12 and looking like a legit threat out there in the West. But as any Clippers fan knows all too well, their championship dreams are tethered to Kawhi’s knees. After years of injury scares, cautious minutes, and painful playoff absences, Leonard’s status is never taken for granted. So, let’s finally lift the curtain on the Clippers’ injury report and see what’s in store for tonight.
Kawhi Leonard Injury Report
Here’s the good news: Kawhi Leonard is not listed on the injury report for tonight’s game. That’s right—after years of holding a collective breath, Clippers fans can breathe a little easier. Leonard is expected to start tonight against the Mavericks, and his recent performances suggest he’s more than ready to take the lead.
When healthy, Leonard has averaged 20.5 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 3.1 assists this season. And the Clippers need every bit of that production. Now at 45-32, they are tied for sixth in the Western Conference, and every win is important. Kawhi’s presence is not merely a bonus against the Mavericks, it’s necessary when facing a Mavericks team that has been on the rise as of late.
While Leonard is clear for takeoff, the Clippers aren’t without their share of injuries elsewhere. Amir Coffey (knee), Ben Simmons (knee), and Jordan Miller (hamstring) will all be unavailable tonight. None of these players have been primary rotation pieces lately, but with the postseason nearing, any dent in depth matters.
INJURY REPORT
Clippers :
Ben Simmons – OUT
Amir Coffey – OUT
Jordan Miller – OUT
Mavericks :
Kyrie Irving – OUT
Dereck Lively II – OUT
Dante Exum – OUT
Olivier Maxence Prosper – OUT
Anthony Davis – QUESTIONABLE
Caleb Martin – PROBABLE
— LA Clippers FR (@LAClippersFRA) April 4, 2025
The injury bug has bitten hard on the Mavericks’ side. Anthony Davis—a surprising mid-season addition to Dallas—is questionable with an adductor issue. Add to that Kyrie Irving is out for the year with an ACL injury, as well as Dereck Lively II, Dante Exum and Olivier-Maxence Prosper. Caleb Martin (hip) is probable. Even if all of those absences hold, the Mavericks will be counting heavily on P.J. Washington and whoever else is still standing.
A Battle of Momentum and Mind Games
Here’s where things get spicy. The Clippers shut this same Mavericks squad down last night (114-91 at Intuit Dome), only a mere 24 hours prior. Ivica Zubac recorded a ton of double, and the Clippers were up 35 on Kawhi, dropping 20 points in ease before Ty Lue got started with some cardio for the bench. This was a kind of statement win playoff teams construct a hotel room swagger from.
The twist here is, the Mavericks know it as well. They’ll be out for revenge. The embarrassment stung because it was Dallas’ lowest scoring performance of the season. Cast the mystery surrounding Davis’ availability and the growing animus between Kawhi and P.J. Washington from their playoff battles last season into this rematch, and suddenly, there’s a sense of personal vendetta involved. Imagine chess but with dunks and elbows.
Jan 26, 2024; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) controls the ball against the Toronto Raptors in the second half at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports
And let’s not forget the Clippers’ motivation. Despite their recent dominance, they’re still just a few bad nights away from falling into the play-in. With the West this wild, there’s no room for error—and no excuses if Kawhi is playing.
So yes, Clippers fans, the answer is a resounding yes—Kawhi Leonard will play tonight if everything goes well, barring any last-minute changes. And with both teams dealing with injuries, rotation shake-ups, and recent tension, tonight’s game promises drama, fireworks, and real playoff implications. Buckle up—this one’s going to be fun.
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