Kawhi ruled out with back spasms; leaves arena
Written by I Dig SportsLOS ANGELES -- LA Clippers All-Star Kawhi Leonard left Crypto.com Arena in the first half against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Tuesday night due to back spasms.
The Clippers said Leonard was suffering from thoracic spasms. A source said Leonard went home to rest because he was uncomfortable sitting with the spasms.
Leonard left the game after playing 12 minutes and scoring six points. The source said Leonard was experiencing issues with his back earlier in the day and tried to play, but it did not improve.
Leonard has played in 58 games this season so far, his most in a season as a Clipper since joining the franchise in the 2019-20 season.
Leonard played on Saturday during the team's 112-102 win over Chicago, but he and Paul George sat out Sunday's 124-117 loss to Milwaukee. Leonard was held out due to left groin soreness, and George sat with left knee soreness.
Both returned to play Tuesday before Leonard exited the game and arena with the back spasms.