AP Photo/Ashley Landis
According to reports, the Los Angeles Clippers will be without their top player for the play-in game against the New Orleans Pelicans.
Paul George will be unavailable for the game because he has entered the NBA's health and safety protocols.
The Clippers knew they would be without Leonard for most or all of the year. George was healthy to help the team push for a playoff spot.
The seven-time All-Star was diagnosed with a torn UCL in December.
George got some meaningful minutes before the playoffs when he played against the Utah Jazz on March 29.
The Clippers made it to the play-in tournament despite losing Leonard and George and finishing with a 42-40 record.
When healthy, George has been his usual productive self this season, despite being a seven-time All-Star.
In 31 regular-season games, he averaged 24.3 points, 6.9 rebound, 5.7 assists, 2.9 three-pointers made and 2.2 steals.
The Clippers fell to the Minnesota Timberwolves in their first play-in game despite George's presence.
The game against the Pelicans on Friday is a must-win situation if they want to make the playoffs.
With neither George nor Leonard available, Clippers head coach Ty Lue will have to rely on Reggie Jackson, Norman Powell, Marcus Morris, Terance Mann, and others.
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