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NBA luminaries reappear after 1 year away | Sports

Kawhi Leonard was at the Los Angeles Clippers’ practice center on Monday. That wasn’t exactly surprising.

The news was his clothing. She finally wore a basketball uniform.

Welcome back, Kawhi. Also Jamal Murray with Denver, Ben Simmons with Brooklyn, Zion Williamson with New Orleans, John Wall with the Clippers and many more in the NBA.

With the start of NBA training camp — most teams start their practices on Tuesday — several NBA luminaries are making a comeback after sitting out a second last season due to injuries and personal reasons.

“I’m lucky to be healthy, blessed to be able to walk up the stairs and not have to think about it,” said Murray, the Nuggets guard who tore the ACL in his left knee in April 2021. “I’ve made a lot of progress. ”.

He is not alone.

Leonard tore his ACL in a postseason game in June 2021. Williamson missed the entire season with a foot injury and other issues.

Wall didn’t play all of last season with Houston — he wasn’t in the Rockets’ rebuilding plans — and recently revealed that years of battling injuries took a toll on his mental health. Ditto for Simmons, who didn’t play last season with Philadelphia or Brooklyn after he was traded and who has also been dealing with mental health issues.

But here they are, looking forward to the new season. Leonard, a two-time Finals MVP, said he will participate in training camp and hopes he won’t be limited during the regular season.

“It’s been 14 months of trying to get better and focusing on my body in general,” Leonard admitted. “Yes, I am excited. I’m tired of rehab exercises and listening to doctors and trainers.”

Williamson — a powerhouse when he’s healthy — said he feels amazing, moves faster and jumps more. Physically, he is at his best.

“I’ve never dealt with a bye like this,” said Williamson, who hasn’t seen NBA action since May 4, 2021. “It’s a long time without playing a game. But my excitement is through the roof. I’m ready to get back on the court.”

Leonard, Wall, Williamson and Murray were on the inactive list for all 82 games last season.

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