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WASHINGTON, DC - JANUARY 13: Kawhi Leonard #2 of the Toronto Raptors runs down the floor in the first half against the Washington Wizards at Capital One Arena on January 13, 2019 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)
WASHINGTON, DC - JANUARY 13: Kawhi Leonard #2 of the Toronto Raptors runs down the floor in the first half against the Washington Wizards at Capital One Arena on January 13, 2019 in Washington, DC. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)Rob Carr/Getty Images

Kawhi Leonard: Resting This Week About Maintenance More Than Injury

Tim DanielsJan 25, 2019

Toronto Raptors forward Kawhi Leonard says his four-game absence that will end Friday night was a way to make sure he's as close to 100 percent as possible for the playoffs.

Leonard told Michael Grange of Sportsnet the Raptors are "listening" as he works toward full strength after playing just nine games last season with the San Antonio Spurs because of a lingering quad injury. He didn't provide much detail about his overall health status, though:

The 27-year-old is enjoying a strong bounce-back campaign to the tune of 27.6 points, 7.9 rebounds, 3.1 assists and 1.9 steals per game across 36 appearances. He ranksย fourthย in the NBA in player efficiency rating.

Toronto won the first three games Leonard missed for rest before dropping Wednesday's contest against the Indiana Pacers.

At 36-14, the Raptors are still tied with the Milwaukee Bucksย atop the Eastern Conferenceย and should cruise into the postseason, even if Leonard requires more rest periods during the season's second half.

While the 2014 NBA Finals MVP said the postseason is the reason for his rest breaks, his uncertain future is likely also part of the equation. He can become an unrestricted free agent if he doesn't exercise hisย player optionย for 2019-20, and health concerns could impact his free-agent value.

His availability as the season wears on will be a storyline to watch, especially if he requires more multigame absences.

The Raptors will be happy to have him back on the floor when they battle red-hot James Harden and the Houston Rockets on Friday.

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