Spurs' Kawhi Leonard (ankle) to play Game 1 vs. Warriors
San Antonio Spurs star Kawhi Leonard, who missed his team's Game 6 win over the Houston Rockets with an ankle injury, will be available for Sunday's Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals.
Leonard, who rolled his ankle when he stepped on James Harden's foot during Game 5 of their second round series, was a full participant in the team's practice on Saturday and is expected to play, according to Spurs coach Gregg Popovich. The Spurs eliminated the Rockets in Game 6, winning 114-75.
Latest NBA coverage:
Phil Jackson standing by parting shots for Carmelo
Wizards vs. Celtics: Five takeaways from Game 6
NBA Western Conference Finals: Warriors vs. Spurs schedule, TV info
Jonathan Simmons started in Leonard's place and had 18 points and four assists in the closeout game.
Leonard's return is a huge boost for Spurs on both ends of the floor. He was averaging 27.8 points, 7.7 rebounds and 4.7 assists this postseason, and he should help contain the Warriors, the top-rated offense thus far with 115.3 points per game.
Follow USA TODAY Sports' Michael Singer on Twitter @msinger.