Is Kawhi Leonard Playing vs Pacers? Clippers Reveal Injury Report

Courtney Tate | Feb 23, 2025

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Indiana Pacers

The upcoming matchup between the Indiana Pacers and the Los Angeles Clippers is set to be a pivotal game for both teams, as they continue to battle for crucial playoff positioning.

With nearly identical records — the Pacers sitting at 31-23 and the Clippers at 31-24 — every game is a must-win for these teams in the highly competitive playoff race.

More Pacers: Kawhi Leonard and Norman Powell Could Miss Pacers vs Clippers Game

The Pacers currently hold the fourth spot in the Eastern Conference, while the Clippers are ranked sixth in the crowded Western Conference.

Best record in the NBA since Jan 15th, 2025 @statmuse

1. Lakers (14-4)
2. Thunder (12-4)
3. Grizzlies (12-4)
4. Knicks (11-4)
5. Nuggets (13-5)
6. Cavaliers (12-5)
7. Celtics (12-5)
8. Pacers (9-4) pic.twitter.com/krtOYOR4to
— BronMuse (@BronMuse) February 23, 2025

With the regular season heading into its final stretch, neither team can afford to let up, and this game could have significant implications for postseason positioning.

One of the biggest storylines surrounding this game is the injury situation for the Clippers, particularly with star forward Kawhi Leonard.

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Leonard’s presence on the floor is crucial for the Clippers, not just in terms of his scoring ability but also his overall impact on both ends of the court. Leonard was listed as questionable and will not play in this game.

Tyronn Lue says Kawhi Leonard and Norm Powell are out.
— Dustin Dopirak (@DustinDopirak) February 23, 2025

Leonard has been an integral piece of the Clippers’ lineup all season long, averaging 16.9 points and 4.6 rebounds per game. While his scoring numbers may not match his peak performances in years past, Leonard still brings a level of defensive prowess and leadership that few players can replicate.

Defensively, Leonard remains one of the league’s elite players, capable of locking down opposing scorers and altering the outcome of games with his ability to defend on the perimeter and contest shots at the rim.

His leadership and experience in high-pressure situations make him invaluable for a Clippers team with championship aspirations. Without him, the Clippers would face a significant challenge, as they rely on Leonard’s all-around play and ability to step up in big moments.

The Clippers’ injury report also included Norman Powell.

Powell, averaging 24.2 points per game, has been a key contributor for the Clippers this season, adding scoring depth and versatility. If Powell is unavailable, the Clippers will have to rely more heavily on their other players to step up in both scoring and defense.

Meanwhile, the Pacers are relatively healthy, with the exception of Isaiah Jackson, who is out indefinitely with an Achilles tear. Indiana’s strong team play and balanced scoring attack will be crucial in this matchup, especially if Leonard and Powell are unable to play at full strength.