LOS ANGELES (AP) 鈥� will miss the Los Angeles Clippers鈥� playoff opener against the Dallas Mavericks.
Leonard had been listed as questionable heading into Game 1 on Sunday because of inflammation in his surgically repaired right knee. Coach Tyronn Lue confirmed that Leonard wasn鈥檛 available nearly two hours before tipoff, although he still wouldn鈥檛 say who was replacing the two-time NBA Finals MVP in the lineup.
鈥淲e prepared as if he was going to play,鈥� Mavs coach Jason Kidd said. 鈥淣ow with him out, the matchups change a little bit.鈥�
Although Leonard has done some shooting the last couple of days, he still hasn't participated in contact practices.
鈥淗e鈥檚 progressing,鈥� Lue said. 鈥淛ust taking it day-by-day.鈥�
Game 2 is Tuesday in Los Angeles.
Leonard has been out since March 31 after playing 68 games during the season, his most as a Clipper. The team went 4-4 in his absence down the stretch.
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AP NBA: https://apnews.com/hub/nba
The Associated Press
