Kawhi Leonard injury update: Spurs forward reportedly targeting Thursday return

Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard may soon be returning to the court.

Leonard has played in just nine games this season while dealing with quad injuries and has not played since Jan. 13. But according to ESPN.com, he is targeting a return Thursday against the Pelicans.

Last month, Spurs coach Gregg Popovich stated that he wasn't optimistic Leonard would be able to play again this season. Leonard was averaging 16.2 points per game before returning to the bench.

Leonard returned to Spurs facilities late in February, but did not immediately join full practice. The Spurs have also dealt with injuries to Tony Parker and Rudy Gay.

Despite all the injury concerns, San Antonio remains fifth in the Western Conference standings.