SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH - JUNE 10: Kawhi Leonard #2 of the LA Clippers looks on before Game Two of the Western Conference second-round playoff series against the Utah Jazz at Vivint Smart Home Arena on June 10, 2021 in Salt Lake City, Utah. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement.

Kawhi ruled out for Game 1 vs. Suns

Alex Goodlett / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Injured Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard won't be available for Game 1 of the Western Conference finals versus the Phoenix Suns, his team announced.

Leonard is out indefinitely after suffering a right knee sprain in Game 4 versus the Utah Jazz.

The 29-year-old star has averaged 30.4 points, 7.7 rebounds, 4.4 assists, and 2.1 steals through 11 postseason appearances. He's also shot 39.3% on threes and 57.3% from the floor overall.

The Suns are facing the possibility of a major absence of their own. Future Hall of Fame point guard Chris Paul remains in health and safety protocols, although he hasn't officially been ruled out from Sunday's Game 1.

Phoenix last appeared in the conference finals in 2010. The Clippers have never advanced this deep into the postseason in team history.

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