Kawhi Leonard, Los Angeles Clippers
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Kawhi Leonard is averaging 28.2 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 3.5 assists through 30 games this season with the Clippers.
Kawhi Leonard has been playing some of the best basketball out of anyone in the league recently. During the month of January, he’s averaging 29.5 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 3.5 assists.
Los Angeles Clippers head coach Tyronn Lue says he feels like he’s coaching Leonard in the postseason with how he’s been playing lately. “The mode he’s in right now, it’s like coaching Kawhi in the playoffs, Lue said. “He gets to the playoffs, he goes to the next level. Ever since that Laker game, I thought he’s going to that next level. Every single night willing us through. It’s been huge for us as far as winning games.”
After the Clippers win over the Washington Wizards, reporters asked Leonard what his response was to Lue’s comment about “Playoff Kawhi,” and him playing at a high level.
“I don’t even know who that is,” Leonard said. “Y’all make up those names and titles.”
Leonard is a competitor and when he steps on the court he does everything he can to put his team in positions to win games.
Kawhi Leonard Says He’s Been Playing at a High-Level
The two-time champion has put together some impressive performances this season. On Dec. 28 he dropped a season-high 55 points in a win over the Detroit Pistons. A few days later he scored 45 points on New Year’s against the Utah Jazz.
Throughout his career, Leonard has blossomed into a dominant two-way player and recently he has been one of the best players on the court. So far Leonard, he doesn’t see it as he’s in playoff mode, he’s just going out there and playing at a high-level.
“I don’t know the story behind ‘Playoff Kawhi’ so I don’t really know,” Leonard said. “I thank him (Lue) for it, but over the years I feel like I’ve been playing at a high level before in the regular season, not just the playoffs. It’s hard to turn it around. You gotta have the same mindset going into every game.”
The Clippers are on a four game winning streak and have won five of their last six games. Leonard has played a significant part in the team’s success and if they continue to keep playing like this, they can find themselves fighting for a play-in spot.
Kawhi Leonard Has Had a Successful Career
Despite numerous injuries, Leonard has had a successful career and is a proven winner. In year 14, he continues to show how dominant he can be on the court.
Last season he only played in 37 games and was forced to miss time because of injuries. This year should be a different story. He also has a chance to play in his seventh All-Star Game. With the game being held at the home of the Clippers, it would be only fitting if he got selected to participate in the game.
Looking at his resume, you can make a case that Leonard has put together a Hall of Fame career. He’ll go down as one of the best two-way players in NBA history.