Leonard played in 68 regular-season games last year, his most since making 74 appearances with San Antonio during the 2016-17 season. As usual, the veteran was a consistent producer, averaging at least 23.5 points, 6.0 rebounds, 3.0 assists and 1.4 steals for a fifth straight campaign -- Leonard missed 2021-22 rehabbing from an ACL injury. In those five seasons, the superstar forward has finished inside the top 22 in eight-category leagues four times, including an 11th-place finish in 2023-24. However, once again, Leonard suffered a knee injury during the postseason, putting his status for the start of 2024-25 in question. He was practicing with Team USA ahead of the 2024 Paris Olympics but had to withdraw before the exhibition showcase began. It was revealed in late September that Leonard had undergone offseason surgery and would be limited to start camp, making his return for the start of the year murky. With Paul George in Philadelphia, Leonard and James Harden will assume leading roles for the Clippers, who may struggle to flirt with contender status in a loaded Western Conference.
