Sports

Clippers Coach Ty Lue Addresses Kawhi Leonard's Future After Loss to Warriors

The season is over for Kawhi Leonard and the Los Angeles Clippers. This is after they suffered a stunning 126-121 play-in loss to Steph Curry and the Golden State Warriors on Wednesday night.

The Clippers entered Wednesday's home game at Intuit Dome with high hopes. Unfortunately, they crumbled in the fourth quarter, allowing the Warriors to outscore them 43-32.

Leonard scored just two points in the final frame as he struggled against a Draymond Green defensive masterclass. The Clippers have now been eliminated from playoff contention, with the Warriors proceeding to face the Phoenix Suns to determine the No. 8 seed in the West.

 Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) © Kyle Ross-USA TODAY Sports
Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) © Kyle Ross-USA TODAY Sports © Kyle Ross-USA TODAY Sports

Clippers head coach Ty Lue spoke to reporters after the game, and one of the questions he faced centered on Leonard's future. The seven-time All-Star is now heading into the final year of his current contract.

"I haven't had a chance to think about that after that tough loss. I love the group that we have," Lue said, via Clippers reporter Farbod Esnaashari. "... Everything is just so fast this season, couldn't really stop and take time to implement what you want to implement."

Lue has chosen to stay mum on what the future holds for Leonard - at least for now.

It is also important to note that the Clippers are still in the midst of an ongoing NBA investigation into Leonard's contract. The organization is facing allegations of circumventing the salary cap through Leonard's endorsement deals. The result of the investigation is also expected to have a significant impact on the two-time Defensive Player of the Year's stature with the Clippers.

It was a heartbreaking end to the season for L.A. They are now headed to a pivotal offseason that could very well determine the direction of this franchise for the foreseeable future.

Related: Steph Curry Leaves No Doubt on His Opinion of Kawhi Leonard

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This story was originally published April 16, 2026 at 1:35 AM.

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