As the Toronto Raptors navigate the opening stretch of the 2026-27 NBA season, star forward Kawhi Leonard could face a longer absence than initially anticipated after the organization announced Tuesday that he would undergo treatment and rehabilitation to address swelling in his left knee.

NBA insider Chris Haynes provided an updated timeline Thursday during NBA TV's “The Association,” revealing that Leonard is expected to miss approximately three to four weeks before the team determines the next steps in his recovery.

“Sources have relayed to me that Kawhi will actually be out of an expected time to around 3-4 weeks,” Haynes said. “So, I think it’s a little longer than what people were expecting or hoping. What I’m told is that they have to wait until the inflammation gets limited and then at that point, at the end of that 3-4 week window they will assess where they go from there.”

The update represents a significant development after Toronto initially announced that Leonard would be reevaluated in one week. While the Raptors' original timeline indicated when the organization would reassess his condition, Haynes' report suggests the 35-year-old could remain sidelined for considerably longer.

Haynes Headlines: Toronto Raptors star Kawhi Leonard (knee) is expected to be sidelined for at least 3-4 weeks, sources tell me. @NBATV pic.twitter.com/nlbZ0IKizP

— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) October 29, 2026

Leonard's recovery will depend on how quickly the inflammation in his left knee subsides, with the Raptors expected to evaluate his progress before establishing a potential return date.

Raptors face extended stretch without Kawhi Leonard

Leonard's latest setback comes just two games into his highly anticipated return to Toronto following his offseason trade from the Los Angeles Clippers.

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Through those appearances, the seven-time All-Star averaged 19.5 points, 7.5 rebounds, 3.5 steals and 1.5 assists while shooting 32.4% from the field and 28.6% from three-point range across 26 minutes per contest.

Despite Leonard's absence, the Raptors have opened the season with a 3-1 record, including Wednesday night's commanding 129-99 victory over the Orlando Magic.

Toronto will now embark on a four-game road trip beginning Sunday against the Los Angeles Lakers (4-1) at 9 p.m. ET.

With Leonard potentially sidelined for several weeks, the Raptors will need to maintain their early momentum without their veteran forward. Although the organization initially planned to reevaluate him after one week, Haynes' latest report indicates that a return remains dependent on his recovery rather than a fixed timetable.