NBA insider gives more precise timeline on Raptors' Kawhi Leonard

It doesn't sound like Kawhi Leonard will return to the court anytime soon.

NBA insider Chris Haynes reported on Thursday that the Toronto Raptors superstar's recovery timeline is longer than what fans may have been expecting.

"I have a little bit more information on his timeline. Sources have relayed to me that Kawhi will actually be out for an expected time of three to four weeks. So, I think it's a little bit longer than what people were expecting or hoping," Haynes said on NBA TV. 

Earlier this week, the Raptors announced that the 35-year-old star, whom they acquired in an offseason trade, would miss time while undergoing treatment and rehabilitation for swelling in his left knee.

Haynes Headlines: Toronto Raptors star Kawhi Leonard (knee) is expected to be sidelined for at least 3-4 weeks, sources tell me. @NBATV https://t.co/nlbZ0IKizP

— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) October 29, 2026

Leonard felt discomfort in his knee during his warm-up routine ahead of the Raptors' Oct. 25 game against the Minnesota Timberwolves, according to the team.

A team official said on Tuesday that Leonard would take the following week off from basketball activities before being reevaluated on Nov. 3.

Haynes' new report provides some clarity to fans on what Kawhi's timeline would look like. He said once Leonard is assessed, he'll then enter that three- to four-week rehab window before returning to the Raptors' starting lineup.

If Leonard is cleared to resume his recovery on Nov. 3 and that timeline holds, Raptors fans may have to wait until late November or early December to see him back on the court.

https://t.co/uYFtR3BZAo

— Kawhi Leonard (@Way2Whi) October 27, 2026

Toronto hosts the Brooklyn Nets on Nov. 27, which could be a potential return date, depending on his progress.

Leonard has been efficient in his two games with Toronto this season, averaging 19.5 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 3.5 steals. The Raptors have also won both games Kawhi has been in the lineup.