As of May 2025, there is no record of Kawhi Leonard being suspended by the NBA. However, the Los Angeles Clippers star has faced multiple interruptions during the 2024–25 season due to injuries and personal circumstances, which have significantly impacted his availability and performance.

Injury Setbacks and Season Debut

 

Leonard’s 2024–25 season was delayed due to inflammation in his right knee, a condition that emerged during the previous season and was exacerbated during his participation in the U.S. national team camp in July 2024. This setback caused him to miss the first 34 games of the season. He made his season debut on January 4, 2025, contributing 12 points in a 131–105 victory over the Atlanta Hawks.

Personal Leave Due to Wildfires

Shortly after his return, Leonard took an indefinite leave from the team in January 2025 to be with his family, who were affected by severe wildfires in Southern California. The wildfires led to the destruction of approximately 1,000 structures and prompted widespread evacuations. Leonard’s family was among those forced to evacuate, and he prioritized their safety during this crisis.

Return to Form and Playoff Performance

 

Upon his return, Leonard gradually regained his form. He recorded a season-high 33 points and 10 rebounds in a loss to the Los Angeles Lakers on March 2, 2025. In the regular-season finale on April 13, he matched his season-high with 33 points, along with six rebounds, seven assists, and three steals, leading the Clippers to an overtime victory over the Golden State Warriors and securing the fifth seed in the Western Conference playoffs.

 

In the playoffs, Leonard delivered a standout performance in Game 2 of the first-round series against the Denver Nuggets, scoring 39 points on 15-of-19 shooting to help the Clippers tie the series.

NBA’s Load Management Policy and Leonard’s Stance

 

The NBA’s new player participation policy, implemented to address concerns over load management, requires star players to participate in a minimum of 65 games to be eligible for major awards. Leonard, having missed the first 34 games of the season, was rendered ineligible for any NBA awards for the 2024–25 season.

 

Leonard has publicly addressed the league’s load management policy, asserting that his absences have been due to legitimate injuries rather than rest. He emphasized his commitment to playing whenever he is physically able, stating, “If I’m able to play, I’ll play.”

Conclusion

 

While Kawhi Leonard has not faced any suspensions during the 2024–25 NBA season, his campaign has been marked by significant challenges, including injury setbacks and personal emergencies. Despite these obstacles, Leonard has demonstrated resilience and a strong commitment to his team, contributing significantly upon his return and playing a pivotal role in the Clippers’ playoff efforts.