Summary
- Darko Rajakovic says Leonard completed practice and is available.
- Leonard sat out Toronto’s first two preseason games.
- The appearance follows his offseason return from the Clippers.
Kawhi Leonard was cleared to make his Toronto Raptors preseason debut against the New York Knicks on October 13, after coach Darko Rajakovic said the forward had completed practice and was feeling well. Hoops Rumors reported the coach’s update on October 12, while The Heavy’s report carried by Yahoo Sports described the planned appearance the following day. The clearance followed a deliberately gradual training-camp buildup. [2]
A familiar team with a new adjustment
Leonard returned to Toronto through an offseason trade with the Los Angeles Clippers, according to both outlets. Hoops Rumors said this would be his first game for the Raptors since helping them win the 2019 championship. He had missed their first two preseason games, including a victory over the Clippers, as the team worked toward his return. [2]
The Heavy reported that Toronto was approaching Leonard’s preparation carefully because of his injury history, despite a comparatively healthy previous season. Its account said he had played 65 games and averaged 27.9 points, with selection to the All-NBA second team. Those figures describe his previous campaign and do not establish his playing time or workload for the new one. [1]
Availability is one part of the preparation
The Heavy also relayed Leonard’s comments about getting familiar with coaches, teammates and the team’s plays. Its report described that learning process alongside physical preparation, with Leonard saying the transition had been welcoming. Returning to a franchise where he previously won does not remove the need to adapt to the current staff and roster. [1]
Hoops Rumors framed the coach’s Monday statement as confirmation of availability for Tuesday. The Heavy said the Raptors were hosting the Knicks at Scotiabank Arena and might give Leonard one more preseason appearance later in the week. These reports established the plan before tipoff; they did not provide a completed-game account, a minutes total or a regular-season health guarantee. [1] [2]