Report: Kawhi Leonard will not play against Pelicans, return still up in air

Kawhi Leonard has indicated that he hopes to play again before the end of the season, and there was some optimism that he could return to the San Antonio Spurs’ lineup as early as Thursday night against the New Orleans Pelicans. That apparently will not be happening.

Shams Charania of Yahoo Sports reports that Leonard will remain out through Thursday’s game as he continues to work toward a possible comeback from his quadriceps injury.

External optimism had built for Leonard’s potential return this week, but he is expected to be remain out and will continue to evaluate his injury for a possible comeback before the season ends, league sources said. Leonard has worked hard to play again, seeking multiple opinions on his quadriceps and working with the Spurs to ensure a healthy return to the court, league sources said. A firm target for his return has yet to be determined.

Leonard said last week that he expects to return to action soon, but he would not name a specific date. While a previous report said he would play again at some point in March, there is clearly still a lot of uncertainty surrounding his status.

Leonard has only appeared in nine games this season. He was out at the start of the season before hurting his shoulder upon returning and re-injuring his quad, which caused him to miss extended time. The Spurs have fallen to the middle of the pack in the Western Conference and could use Leonard down the stretch and into the postseason.