Popovich reiterates that 'Kawhi and his group' will decide his status

San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich is tired of being questioned about Kawhi Leonard's ongoing absence.

"You'll have to ask Kawhi and his group that question," Popovich told Jeff McDonald of the San Antonio Express-News on Sunday, echoing the same line he expressed weeks ago.

Leonard continues to be away from the team despite receiving clearance from the Spurs' medical team, and it's become obvious there is a deep disconnect between the two sides. Leonard couldn't even bring himself to cheer on his team while they competed in Game 1 of the playoffs.

The brunt of his absence, however, continues to weigh on Popovich and the players since Leonard remains silent on the issue. Without a definitive answer from his end, the Spurs will continue to face questions, even if the answer remains the same.

Leonard has only made nine appearances all season as he continues to deal with a lingering quad issue. He's rehabbing in New York and still hasn't been cleared by his medical staff, sources told ESPN's Chris Haynes.