He is the NBA’s most reserved superstar — in terms of not speaking — but he’s at a point in his career where he must make noise.
Kawhi Leonard is a two-time NBA champion and two-time NBA Finals Most Valuable Player.
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The 33-year-old won a title for the San Antonio Spurs (Western Conference) and Toronto Raptors (Eastern Conference). He has spent the last five seasons with the Los Angeles Clippers, yet Leonard has been riddled by injuries. He has not been healthy for the Clippers in the postseason, which has led to NBA media personalities wondering if he will ever assist the franchise to a title.
The 6-foot-7, 225-pounder has averaged 20.1 points per game, but fans want to see “The Klaw” be himself again.
Los Angeles is the sixth seed in the Western Conference at 41-31. It needs to put itself in the best position for the playoffs; however, the Clippers have to have a healthy Leonard. Kendrick Perkins, a former NBA player, said on ESPN’s First Take he feels the Clippers are the second-best team in the WC. Stephen A. Smith is not buying the Clippers for one reason and one reason only.
“Call me when Kawhi Leonard is in the [playoff] lineup, and I’ll listen about the Clippers. Not before.” ???? @stephenasmith responds to @KendrickPerkins saying the Clippers are the 2nd-best team in the West ???? pic.twitter.com/CnqltBz7xz
— First Take (@FirstTake) March 28, 2025
“Kawhi Leonard is going to ruin it,” Smith said.
“He is going to ruin it because he is going to continue to play. When he is healthy enough and on the basketball court, the brother is big time. He is going to play well, but his availability is always a question mark. When he is not available, it is always at key pivotal moments and that is what we are talking about. Call me when Kawhi Leonard is in the playoff lineup, and I’ll listen about the Clippers. Not before. I am not interested.”
Leonard has to prove to NBA media pundits he can stay healthy in big moments.
Stephen M. Smith is a writer for Ball Exclusives. You can follow him him X via @CoachingMSmith.
