After missing all of Games 2 and 3 with an ankle injury that was re-aggravated in Game 1, Kawhi Leonard has been ruled out for Game 4 of the Western Conference Finals, Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich announced in his pregame press conference Monday.
Zaza Pachulia, the player that Leonard re-aggrivated his ankle by landing on, will also miss Game 4. Pachulia missed Game 3 with a heel injury that continues to bother him. JaVale McGee is likely to start in his place as he did in Game 3.
No Kawhi Leonard again tonight.
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) May 22, 2017
Zaza Pachulia remains out for Game 4. JaVale McGee will likely start again. “Decent chance,” Mike Brown said. “But not 100%”
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) May 22, 2017
With Golden State going for the sweep, it is likely Zaza will be spared from the vitriol that would be directed toward him should be have been healthy enough to suit up for a game in San Antonio. Many Spurs fans are upset with Pachulia, blaming him for Leonard’s injury, pointing to his questionable and dangerous closeout while contesting his shot in Game 1. Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich fanned those flames last week, calling out Pachulia’s actions “totally unnatural.” Pachulia has reportedly received death threats and has feared for his family’s safety, to the point where extra security was added out front of his children’s’ school.
Jonathan Simmons is expected to start in Leonard’s place.