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NBA Rumors: Kawhi Leonard returns to New York; return unknown

By Michael Saenz

SACRAMENTO, CA - OCTOBER 27: Kawhi Leonard #2 of the San Antonio Spurs looks on from the bench against the Sacramento Kings during the first quarter of an NBA basketball game at Golden 1 Center on October 27, 2016 in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images)
SACRAMENTO, CA - OCTOBER 27: Kawhi Leonard #2 of the San Antonio Spurs looks on from the bench against the Sacramento Kings during the first quarter of an NBA basketball game at Golden 1 Center on October 27, 2016 in Sacramento, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Thearon W. Henderson/Getty Images) /
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NBA Rumors: Kawhi Leonard has returned to New York to seek non-Spurs rehab for his ailing leg; return is becoming more and more unlikely by the day

Just a couple weeks ago, a report surfaced that Kawhi Leonard’s return to the San Antonio Spurs lineup was imminent.

Now, though, it seems more unlikely by the day that the former NBA MVP candidate will return to the Spurs this season – and possibly beyond.

After a few encouraging reports over the last couple of weeks, there was a growing possibility that Kawhi could return for the playoffs. That is all but dead, especially now that he’s reportedly returned to New York for rehab from non-Spurs doctors.

More from Sir Charles In Charge

"[via ESPN]For the second time this season, San Antonio Spurs star Kawhi Leonard has traveled to New York to continue rehabilitation for his lingering right quad injury under the supervision of outside medical personnel, league sources told ESPN.Leonard has been in New York since Monday, and there’s no timetable set on a possible return to San Antonio, sources said."

If there was any optimism, that’s all but dead. Kawhi Leonard returning this season seems like a pipe dream at this point – and it’s pretty safe to assume that the Spurs will be without their best player for the postseason.

The Spurs are currently the 4th seed in the Western Conference, but could land anywhere from the 5th to the 8th seed by the time the NBA’s regular season is officially in the books. They’re three games back of the Portland Trail Blazers for the 3rd seed in the conference, so that’s pretty much out of reach at this point.

Must Read: Kawhi Leonard: How the money and the injury will determine his future

The big question for the Spurs – and their fans – isn’t whether Kawhi Leonard is going to return this season. I believe the real question is whether Kawhi Leonard is going to return next season. And if he isn’t offered the super max extension this summer, it gets all the more interesting.

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