Kawhi Leonard has completed a treatment to address left knee swelling and has begun the “return to play process” in Toronto, the Raptors announced on Tuesday.
The team said it will provide an update on Leonard’s progress in one week, which means the earliest he could return to action is 11 November against Boston.
Leonard, 35, has been sidelined by left knee swelling after appearing in just two regular-season games for Toronto. An MRI on the knee last month showed no structural damage.
Previous knee problems
Leonard has previously dealt with issues in his right knee, undergoing multiple surgeries on his meniscus and ACL.
Early-season numbers and background
In his two games this season, Leonard is averaging 19.5 points, 7.5 rebounds and 3.5 steals. He is in his first year back with the Raptors after being traded to Toronto from the LA Clippers this offseason, following a scandal-marred conclusion to his six seasons in Los Angeles. He agreed to a two-year, $115 million contract extension with the Raptors after the trade.
Leonard previously spent one season in Toronto, where he led the Raptors to their only NBA championship in 2019 before leaving for the Clippers in free agency.