We would much rather focus on what happens on the court. But once again, events off it are dominating the conversation.
That brings us to Kawhi Leonard. Whenever he misses several games without a reported serious injury or an obvious incident on the court, the same question arises: is it simply load management, or are his recurring knee problems becoming a concern again?
Leonard arrived in Toronto looking in excellent shape after an impressive season with the Clippers, during which he played 65 regular-season games and finished seventh in MVP voting. It seemed reasonable to assume that his latest absence was simply a precaution. Resting him, avoiding unnecessary risks and taking advantage of Toronto’s squad depth while the team was performing well.
Haynes Headlines: Toronto Raptors star Kawhi Leonard (knee) is expected to be sidelined for at least 3-4 weeks, sources tell me. @NBATV https://t.co/nlbZ0IKizP
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) October 29, 2026
But no. According to the latest reports from Chris Haynes, Leonard’s knee problem is more serious than initially thought. After all, no player would willingly sit out for almost a month and risk losing match fitness if they were fully healthy. Two days earlier, Shams Charania reported significant swelling in Leonard’s left knee. Although an MRI revealed no structural damage, the inflammation is expected to keep him sidelined for three to four weeks.
Toronto face several tough opponents in the coming weeks, including the Lakers, Nuggets, Celtics, 76ers, Pistons and two games against the Knicks. If Leonard recovers on schedule and returns in early December, he could be available for the Raptors’ clash with the San Antonio Spurs.
Until then, much of the responsibility will fall to Scottie Barnes, Ja’Kobe Walter, Immanuel Quickley and R.J. Barrett. The latter has made an impressive start to the season and currently leads the team in scoring, averaging 22 points, 6 rebounds and just under 4 assists per game while shooting over 50% from the field.
(Cover photograph by Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images)
