Kawhi Leonard chose longer deal due to knee injury

Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard said Monday his serious knee injury was a big factor in why he signed a long-term deal with the club instead of a shorter option.

Leonard partially tore the ACL in his right knee June 14 during the Western Conference semifinals against the Utah Jazz. Hemissed the remainder of the postseason and underwent surgery July 13.

A few weeks after the procedure, Leonard declined his $36