Raptors keep Kawhi Leonard out against the Timberwolves with left knee swelling

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Toronto Raptors star forward Kawhi Leonard was held out of the team’s loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Sunday night because of swelling in his left knee.

Leonard did not appear on the injury report for the Raptors until an hour before tipoff at Minnesota. The team announced he had an effusion, which is an abnormal buildup of excess fluid around the joint.

Coach Darko Rajakovic said after the 117-94 loss to the Timberwolves that Leonard would undergo further medical testing on Monday before his timeline for returning to action is determined. Toronto’s next game is at home against Orlando on Wednesday.

Leonard, who returned this season to the Raptors after leading them to the NBA championship in 2019, had 16 points on 7-for-20 shooting in 28 minutes in Toronto’s victory at Washington on Friday. He had 23 points on 5-for-17 shooting in 24 minutes in the opening win at Chicago on Wednesday night.

The 35-year-old, who spent the last seven seasons with the Los Angeles Clippers, has been hampered by knee trouble throughout his decorated 15-year career. The seven-time All-Star has averaged just 53 games played per regular season since his debut with the San Antonio Spurs in 2011.

___

See AP’s full NBA coverage here

News from © The Associated Press, . All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Join the Conversation!

Want to share your thoughts, add context, or connect with others in your community?

The Associated Press

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world’s population sees AP journalism every day.