Kawhi Leonard may return Monday night versus Atlanta

After entering the NBA’s concussion protocol Friday due to a hit to the head, Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard could possibly suit up in San Antonio’s next game versus the Atlanta Hawks.

Spurs all-star forward Kawhi Leonard was seen taking free throws during San Antonio’s morning shoot around. ESPN Staff Writer Michael C. Wright tweeted a video of Leonard taking free throws at the Spurs Practice Facility.

Thursday night, Leonard injured his head in a loss against the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Leonard sat out Saturday night in the Spurs’ 107-85 victory over the Golden State Warriors. Due to league rules, Leonard must pass a series of tests in order to return to the court. Currently, San Antonio sits just a half game back of Golden State for the top seed in the Western Conference.

Furthermore, with a win against Atlanta Monday night, the Spurs could take a half-game lead in over the Warriors as the regular season is over in less than one month. Leonard is San Antonio’s leading scorer (26.2 points-per-game) and averages the most steals per contest (1.9).

Leonard’s absence has not always gone against San Antonio. Earlier this season, the Spurs blew out the Brooklyn Nets, 112-86 as Leonard sat. In late January, the Spurs came from behind to defeat the Sacramento Kings, 114-104 en route to its 50th win of the season.

On the other hand, Atlanta is a much tougher opponent. Earlier this season, the Hawks notched 40 fourth quarter points to defeat Houston. All things considered, Gregg Popovich has not ever shied away from resting his players. However, his discretion doesn’t matter in this scenario, as it is up to the league to decide his playing fate.

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Leonard’s playing status will be more clear as the game draws closer. For as much as the Spurs would like him to play in every game, San Antonio needs his health for the playoff race.