Raptors' Leonard completes knee treatment, begins 'return to play process'

Kawhi Leonard has completed a treatment to address left knee swelling and is beginning the "return to play process" in Toronto, the Raptors announced on Tuesday.

The team said it will issue another update on his status in one week.

Leonard, 35, was sidelined due to left knee swelling after appearing in just two regular-season games for Toronto. An MRI on the knee taken last month showed no structural damage.

The injury is to Leonard's left knee. He has previously had issues with his right knee, having multiple surgeries for his meniscus and ACL. In a statement, the team said Leonard will be reevaluated in one week.

In two games this season, Leonard is averaging 19.5 points, 7.5 rebounds and 3.5 steals.

Leonard is in his first year back with the Raptors after being traded to Toronto from the Clippers this offseason after a scandal-marred conclusion to his six seasons there. He agreed to a two-year, $115 million contract extension with the Raptors after the trade.

Leonard previously played one season in Toronto, leading the Raptors to their only NBA championship in 2019 before leaving for the Clippers in free agency.