San Antonio Spurs roundup: Kawhi Leonard, distant and disconnection

The San Antonio Spurs had a tumultuous day on Monday, Jan. 22. Will this change on Tuesday? Before that, let’s break down the latest news, notes and headlines of the day.

On Monday, the San Antonio Spurs had an off day, one that was full of reports about the team’s superstar player. Before that, it was about their latest loss. This time, it was to the Indiana Pacers, dropping the Silver and Black to 30-18.

After the game, one Spurs player confirmed a marquee lineup shift, one that will have implications for the rest of the season, continuing with Tuesday’s game vs. the Cleveland Cavaliers. How will this factor into the latest roundup?

Let’s take a look at the latest news, notes and headlines for Jan. 23, as things seem to be in flux for San Antonio:

• ESPN broke a story about a “distant” and “disconnected” Kawhi Leonard, who was apparently this way over the organization’s handling of his quad rehab. However, this piece included a quote from RC Buford, the team’s general manager, who refuted the report.
• Speaking of denials, Leonard’s uncle said everything is fine between his nephew and the Spurs. This was the latest statement to go against ESPN’s report, and, with a game set for Tuesday night, it could lead to similar comments, especially on national television.
• After Sunday’s game, Spurs point guard Tony Parker announced that he was no longer the starting point guard, news that head coach Gregg Popovich broke to him before facing the Pacers. What made Popovich change the starting lineup after the season’s halfway point?
• As the NBA Trade Deadline approaches, we looked back on the Spurs’ history, or lack thereof, on this annual day.

Next: Top 25 players in Spurs history

Which news, notes and headlines will develop before, during and after Tuesday’s game in Cleveland?