Kawhi Leonard Leaves Arena After Suffering Injury in Clippers Game

Los Angeles Clippers star Kawhi Leonard suddenly departed Crypto.com Arena after experiencing discomfort in his back during their home game against the Minnesota Timberwolves on Tuesday, March 12.

The 32-year-old played in the first quarter, scoring six points on 2-of-4 shooting in 12 minutes. He also contributed two rebounds and two assists before sitting out the remainder of the game due to injury.

Leonard sustained a back injury after making a floater with less than six minutes remaining in the first period.

The two-time NBA Finals MVP was seen in the back tunnel after the first quarter, still wearing his Clippers uniform. However, a few moments later, he appeared in street clothes, sporting a denim jacket, as he abruptly left the arena, leaving fans confused and concerned.

Leonard has faced multiple injuries throughout his tenure with the Clippers and has yet to play more than 60 games in a season since arriving as a free agent in the summer of 2019.

Kawhi Leonard's reason for leaving the arena revealed

The six-time NBA All-Star's exit from the game was due to thoracic spasms.

Later, it was reported that he left the Crypto.com Arena because he was uncomfortable sitting, according to league insider Ohm Youngmisuk of ESPN.

After holding a 13-point lead at the end of the first quarter and leading by as much as 22 points, the Clippers collapsed following Leonard's departure, resulting in a 118-100 loss at the hands of the Wolves.