Clippers stars Kawhi Leonard, Paul George cleared to return vs. Magic

Jan. 29 (UPI) -- Los Angeles Clippers stars Kawhi Leonard and Paul George have cleared the NBA's health and safety protocols and are available to play Friday night against the Orlando Magic.

Leonard and George returned to the Clippers in Orlando after missing the first two games of the team's six-game road swing. Los Angeles departed on the trip without Leonard and George, who were placed in the league's COVID-19 protocols on Monday.

The Clippers, however, will still be without starting point guard Patrick Beverley. The veteran guard remains out because of right knee soreness.

Without Leonard, George and Beverley, the Clippers (14-5) lost to the Atlanta Hawks on Tuesday before beating the Miami Heat on Thursday night.

Leonard has averaged 25.9 points, 5.7 assists, 5.4 rebounds and two steals this season. George is averaging 23.9 points, 6.2 rebounds, 5.4 assists and 1.2 steals per game.

The Clippers are scheduled to play the Magic (8-11) at 8 p.m. EST Friday at Amway Center in Orlando. Los Angeles then travels to take on the New York Knicks (8-11) on Sunday.