NBA: 3 Western Conference teams that will regress in 2021-22

3 of 4

Kawhi Leonard (Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports) /

LA Clippers

For the past two seasons, the LA Clippers have been one of the favorites in the West entering the season. However, that won’t be the case this year. And a big reason why is the injury to Kawhi Leonard. Considering Kawhi is recovering from a major knee injury and that there’s no clear timeline on when he’s going to return, it’s time to fade the Clippers.

Even if Kawhi returns around the middle of the season, he’s going to ease back into action and won’t be playing big minutes. This Clippers team is still immensely talented, but there’s no question that losing Kawhi will be a huge loss.

It would be surprising if this team finished as one of the top 4 seeds in the West and even more surprising if they made a deep run in the playoffs. Maybe they round into shape by the end of the season, with a healthy Kawhi. I just don’t see it. Not this year.