Clippers Disappointed by USA Basketball's Decision to Remove Kawhi Leonard from Olympics Roster

Despite the Clippers' desire for Kawhi Leonard to play in the Paris Olympics, USA Basketball decided that it was not in his best interest due to his recent knee injury.

The Los Angeles Clippers are expressing their dissatisfaction with USA Basketball's decision to remove Kawhi Leonard from its roster for the upcoming Paris Olympics. Leonard, a two-time NBA champion and six-time NBA All-Star, was initially expected to play for the U.S. but was replaced by Boston Celtics guard Derrick White last week after a four-day, four-practice training camp.

According to Clippers general manager Lawrence Frank, the decision was solely made by USA Basketball and came as a disappointment to the team. "Kawhi wanted to play," Frank told reporters. "We wanted him to play."

Leonard missed 12 of the Clippers' final 14 games this past season due to right knee inflammation. However, he has since expressed that he feels fine and that his knee is doing well. Despite this, USA Basketball, which has Clippers coach Tyronn Lue as an assistant on head coach Steve Kerr's staff, did not share the same optimism.

"I was there the first two practices. He looked very good, was a full participant in everything that they did," Frank said. "I wasn't there for the third practice, where ultimately, that was the point where they decided to go in a different direction."

Frank expressed his wish that USA Basketball would have given Leonard more time to prove his fitness. The U.S. team is currently without three-time gold medalist Kevin Durant, who is dealing with an injury but is expected to join the team later.

"I understand USAB's perspective that they have to look at what they feel is in the best interest of the team," Frank said. "They're also managing some other players who are dealing with injuries, so, I understand that they have to do what's best. ... You have to move forward. We support USAB. Desperately want to see them win the gold medal. I know that's how Kawhi feels, too."

Leonard's injury history has been a concern in recent years, but he has vehemently denied any lingering issues. His exclusion from the Olympics roster is a significant blow to the Clippers, who had hoped to see him showcase his talents on an international stage.

Despite the disappointment, the Clippers remain supportive of USA Basketball and their goal of winning another gold medal. They understand the challenges of managing a roster with injured players and respect the decision made by the organization.