Kawhi's knee inflammation returns: 'I want to play'

Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard revealed that inflammation in his knee resurfaced after Game 2, affecting his participation in Friday's 101-90 defeat to the Dallas Mavericks, according to ESPN's Ohm Youngmisuk.

The veteran missed the first-round series opener due to the injury as well as the last eight contests of the regular season. He returned for Game 2 but was limited in Game 3, recording nine points and nine rebounds in 25 minutes. The Clippers now face a 2-1 series deficit.

When asked if he'll be available to play in Game 4 on Sunday, Leonard said he would be.

"Right now, I'll see (how it feels) tomorrow. But I want to play."

The Clippers star acknowledged that his knee "didn't respond the way we wanted" after his return.

"Frustrating that it happened to me this late in the season, but we're going to keep going," he added. "We're going to get it right."

The 32-year-old enjoyed one of his healthiest campaigns, playing in 68 regular-season games - his most since 2017.

Clippers president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank said Leonard's inflammation has been "unpredictable" and "stubborn" but maintains his meniscus and ACL are structurally sound.

Paul George is supportive of his teammate and acknowledges the work Leonard has been putting in.

"We all want the best for him," said George. "He's battling not being able to be 100% to be here for us, but we got to cover, pick up the slack, and appreciate what he's given us.

"He's still trying to suit up and give us whatever he can. I definitely feel for him knowing he's been working hard and again to get to this point where we want to make a (playoff) push and he can't be 100% right now."