Mo Bamba Returns to LA Clippers Amid Kawhi Leonard’s Continued Absence

The LA Clippers have been navigating the start of the NBA season without two of their key players, Kawhi Leonard and Mo Bamba, both sidelined due to knee injury recoveries. Bamba, recovering from a left knee injury, recently completed a G League assignment with the San Diego Clippers. During his appearance against the Valley Suns, the center amassed 13 points and 12 rebounds, showcasing his readiness to return to the main team’s roster.

Following this stint, Bamba was listed as available for the Clippers’ game against the Utah Jazz. According to the Clippers’ updated injury report, he will also be available for the upcoming game against the Golden State Warriors, as reported by Tomer Azarly of ClutchPoints.com. Despite Bamba’s return, Kawhi Leonard remains sidelined due to a right knee injury, with no announced timeline for his return.

As Bamba re-enters the Clippers’ rotation, he is expected to serve as Ivica Zubac‘s primary backup. However, due to head coach Ty Lue‘s preference for a smaller lineup at times, featuring players like Nicolas Batum, Bamba’s playing time is not guaranteed. In his recent return game against Utah, he played for 15 minutes, highlighting a cautious approach towards his reintegration.

Kai Jones, another potential backup for the center position, has seen his game time decrease as Bamba’s health improved. With Bamba now available, the Clippers have more flexibility in their lineup choices, though his long-term role remains to be determined as the team continues to adjust to the season’s demands.

This development is part of a coverage by Joey Linn, a sports journalist who has been following the Clippers for various media outlets, including Sports Illustrated‘s FanNation. His insights detail the strategic adjustments the team is making in light of its roster changes.