Kawhi Leonard Expected to Return by December

Kawhi Leonard of the Los Angeles Clippers is set to miss three more games due to a right knee injury but is making progress, participating in contact practices and potentially returning as soon as December 27 against Golden State. The Clippers have struggled recently, losing two of their last three games and failing to score 100 points in those losses, placing additional pressure on players like James Harden and Norman Powell to maintain performance. Coach Tyronn Lue remains optimistic about Leonard's status, indicating he will be re-evaluated soon as the team prepares for a road trip. Meanwhile, the New York Knicks welcomed Landry Shamet back from a dislocated shoulder, where he contributed 10 points in a victory over the Greensboro Swarm, helping the team secure a spot in the G League Winter Showcase. The Knicks aim to bolster their scoring depth as their bench ranks last in the NBA for second unit points. The Knicks' recent success also included Moses Brown's return, who recorded a double-double in the same game.