Spurs' Popovich not bullish on Leonard making quick return from hand injury
The prognosis on the tear in San Antonio Spurs small forward Kawhi Leonard's hand could be more serious than originally anticipated.
Head coach Gregg Popovich spoke to reporters Monday and sounded less than bullish about Leonard's hand, which may ultimately need surgery to repair.
Popovich not as bullish on Kawhi Leonard making quick return as Leonard was. Calls the Finals MVP's hand injury "problematic."
— Jeff McDonald (@JMcDonald_SAEN) December 22, 2014
Pop says hand doc said he's never seen the exact injury Leonard has before. Which indeed sounds "problematic."
— Jeff McDonald (@JMcDonald_SAEN) December 23, 2014
On Friday, Popovich speculated that Leonard's injury would not keep him out for long and reports noted he was expected to make a return within a few days. Popovich also revealed that nothing was broken in Leonard's hand, though he did receive an injection on Sunday.
There is no timetable for his return.
In his fourth season, Leonard is averaging 15.2 points, 7.6 rebounds, 2.5 assists 2.0 steals. Rookie Kyle Anderson will likely continue to start in his place.