The status of Los Angeles Clippers F Kawhi Leonard remains up in the air heading into Thursday’s matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves, which tips at 10:00 p.m. ET on Prime Video. Leonard continues to deal with ankle soreness that recently forced him from a game.
With that in mind, let’s take a look at the latest Kawhi Leonard injury update for Thursday vs. the Timberwolves, plus some key stats and PrizePicks projections to consider for who could benefit if Leonard doesn’t play.
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Kawhi Leonard Injury Update: Is He Playing vs. Timberwolves?
The Clippers officially listed Leonard as questionable for Thursday’s game due to left ankle soreness.
Leonard initially left last Friday’s game against the Los Angeles Lakers with the injury but did manage to play in the team’s next game against the Orlando Magic on Sunday. In that contest, he played 33 minutes with the same injury designation and scored 37 points on 14-of-25 shooting.
In 44 games, Leonard leads the Clippers in points per game (28.0) while also averaging 6.4 rebounds and 3.7 assists. He's been on a tear lately, posting 29.3 PPG in February.
Kawhi Leonard Injury Impact: Which Clippers Players to Target?
If Leonard’s injury requires a night off, F Bennedict Mathurin is a player who could excel for the Clippers.
Mathurin was acquired at the trade deadline earlier this month in the deal that sent C Ivica Zubac to the Indiana Pacers. Since arriving in Los Angeles, Mathurin has been an instant source of offense.
In four games, Mathurin's averaged 25.3 PPG, 4.8 RPG, and 3.5 APG despite knocking down just 27.8% of his shots from deep. The 2022 lottery pick turned in a 38-point performance in a 115-114 win against the Denver Nuggets on February 19 in which he connected on 12 of 22 shots.
Per databallr, Mathurin finishes 10.0 true shot attempts per 100 possessions in transition, putback, and cutting shot opportunities. He has also tallied at least 21 points in three of his four contests since arriving in Los Angeles.
Whether Leonard can go or not, the talented wing has all the makings of a player who might affect the outcome of this game.
Bennedict Mathurin Stats, Projections vs. Timberwolves
Here are the most popular Bennedict Mathurin player projections for Clippers vs. Timberwolves tonight, via PrizePicks, where you can predict More or Less and earn real money if you're right.
- 21.5 Points
- 29.5 Pts + Rebs + Asts
- 26.5 Pts + Rebs
- 24.5 Pts + Asts
- 5.5 Rebounds
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Make Timberwolves vs. Clippers Picks on PrizePicks
The Clippers could be without leading scorer Kawhi Leonard for Thursday’s game against the Timberwolves. If Leonard isn’t able to suit up, there are plenty of Clippers player picks to consider on PrizePicks, including ones for Bennedict Mathurin.
Just pick at least two player stat projections, predict More or Less, and cash in if you're right. With PrizePicks Team Picks, you can also make predictions on game winners, spreads, and over/unders — now available in 34 states.
Check out the Playbook throughout the season for more NBA picks, predictions, and news every day.
