Kawhi Leonard is likely one of the extra transcendent NBA abilities of the previous decade. All through his 13-year profession, Leonard has skilled the very best peaks within the recreation. The Clippers star, a six-time All-Star, has received two NBA championships and two Finals MVP trophies.
When he is within the lineup, Leonard is a dominant, environment friendly power able to main a franchise. His prowess on each ends of the ground is notable, and the two-time Defensive Participant of the 12 months usually positions his staff for a championship run.
Sadly, Leonard has struggled to get on the courtroom in current seasons. A number of accidents — primarily a lingering damage to his surgically repaired left knee — have often sidelined the celebrity.
Leonard has missed 294 regular-season games over the past eight seasons, together with all the 2021-22 season with knee hassle after struggling an damage within the 2021 Western Convention semifinals towards Utah.
Fortunately for each NBA followers and the Clippers, Leonard made his long-awaited season debut on Jan. 4 towards the Hawks. Though it would take time to regain his MVP-caliber kind, Leonard relished the return.
“It felt nice,” Leonard said. “I used to be capable of throw some paint on the canvas tonight. We’re working to create one thing stunning, so let’s maintain going.”
Since his season debut, Leonard has scored 15+ factors in all however two of his eight video games, together with a 27-point eruption on Wednesday towards the Spurs, the staff he performed for from 2011-2018.
After the sport, a reporter interviewing Leonard famous his 27 factors as a profession excessive, however the star corrected her.