Will two-time NBA Finals MVP Kawhi Leonard, these days perhaps the third-most lethal man on the L.A. Clippers behind its breakout backcourt of James Harden and Norman Powell, suit up against the tanking Portland Trail Blazers on Thursday?

Los Angeles Clippers star Kawhi Leonard made his return to action last week, but has continued to err on the side of caution.

Leonard had six points on 3-for-9 shooting and five rebounds in 21 minutes of his third game, a 109-98 victory over the Miami Heat on Monday night. He didn't play in the fourth quarter of a game in which the Clippers trailed by 13 early.

I’m taking my time,” says Leonard, who has played 61 minutes in three games since his season debut. “I done that in the past and it led me on the bench, so I’m good where I’m at.”

Kawhi Leonard finally made his long-awaited return to the NBA after being injured since the first round of last year's NBA playoffs. However, even though Leonard's back, he's still not quite in the superstar form he was last season - it's going to take some time.

The Los Angeles Clippers secured a victory over the Miami Heat, despite an underwhelming performance from Kawhi Leonard. James Harden delivered a message to the team regarding Kawhi as he works through his struggles this NBA season.