LOS ANGELES – The LA Clippers have their superstar duo back as they face the leading Utah Jazz on Friday night, with both Kawhi Leonard and Paul George returning from injuries.
Both were back in the starting line-up after George missed the previous seven games with a swollen right toe and Leonard had a left leg bruise in the previous three.
“They’ve been good and the body has responded well to the workouts they’ve been doing,” said coach Tyronn Lue. “Tonight is the evening.”
The starting line-up of the Clippers is complete again and Nic Batum also returns after missing the previous two games with a concussion. Reserve shooting guard Luke Kennard is also available to play after missing the last game with a sore knee.
George stayed outside until the pain and swelling in his toe subsided.
“I just know [George] has no pain and the swelling has subsided, “said Lue.” He’s been playing basketball for the past few days and he’s feeling good. No pain, no problems … both [pain and swelling] have left. “
Utah blew out the short-handed Clippers on Wednesday, starting Friday’s game with 20 of the last 21.