Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard, who's missed four straight games with a torn ligament in his right hand, "has told some of his closest associates he thinks he will be ready to suit up for the Spurs' Christmas Day game against the Oklahoma City Thunder," reports the San Antonio Express-News.
Coach Gregg Popovich has the final say, however. On Monday he "made a Christmas Day appearance by his defensive star seem about as likely as flying reindeer," the paper said. Assuming Leonard is held out, rookie Kyle Anderson and swingman Danny Green would defend Thunder forward Kevin Durant if Durant returns from an ankle sprain that has sidelined him three straight games, the paper added.
Leonard, the 2014 NBA Finals MVP, is averaging 15.2 points, 7.6 rebounds and 2.5 assists in 22 games this season.
