Is Clippers’ Kawhi Leonard playing vs. Mavericks? Latest Game 4 injury update

Leonard is certainly needed for the game Sunday. The Clippers are down 2-1 in the series, and another loss would put the team’s back against the wall facing elimination. Leonard is a key part of the team’s offense, averaging nearly 24 points a game this year. He is also shooting better than 52 percent from the field.

The Clippers’ star has been slowed down in this series, due to his injury. Leonard missed game one against the Mavericks, and struggled to give the team heavy minutes in the last two matchups. Leonard finished with only nine points in game 3, playing a total of 25 minutes. The forward did pour in 15 points in 35 minutes of action for game two. He is also leading the club in steals during this postseason, averaging two a game.

The good news for the Clippers is that Leonard is the only player on the team’s injury report, heading into the playoff matchup. The Mavericks are going to be without Olivier-Maxence Prosper, and Tim Hardaway Jr. is doubtful. Mavericks’ star Luka Doncic is also questionable for the contest, dealing with a sore knee. Doncic seems likely to play, per ESPN.

Leonard is receiving treatment for his inflammation. If the forward isn’t able to go on Sunday, the team will have to rely once again on James Harden, who leads the team in scoring this playoff series. Harden is pouring in nearly 24 a game, carrying a heavy load for L.A. In the regular season, Harden was averaging just under 17 a game. He has clearly been trying to make up for Leonard’s absence during this playoff matchup with Dallas.

He’s not the only player trying to help out. The Clippers have been also getting quality minutes from Ivica Zubac in this series. The center is averaging a double-double in the series, with a 17 point and 12 rebound average.

The Clippers and Mavericks tip-off at 3:30 Eastern on Sunday.