INGLEWOOD, Calif. — As the Los Angeles Clippers gear up for the postseason, Kawhi Leonard is set to make his presence felt, reflecting both strength of mind and body. After a challenging past two seasons that saw him participate in a mere two playoff games, the seasoned 33-year-old, twice crowned Finals MVP, is once again in peak form. The Clippers are slated to face the fourth-seeded Denver Nuggets in the inaugural round this upcoming Saturday.
“I’m just grateful to have made it here,” Leonard expressed. “The team really pulled through in that final stretch.”
Leonard’s return to form has been pivotal in reshaping the Clippers’ playing style. Initially unable to participate in the first 34 games due to complications from knee surgery, his comeback coincided with a remarkable period where the Clippers secured 18 out of 21 victories, boasting the NBA’s top offensive record during that time.
“It feels wonderful to have him competing at such a high level, it’s invaluable for our team,” conveyed head coach Tyronn Lue. “I’m thrilled for him, knowing the dedication and effort he’s put in to be healthy at the season’s end.”
Leonard, a two-time NBA champion with stints at San Antonio and Toronto, has faced considerable health challenges since joining Los Angeles five years ago. His journey through injuries began in the 2020-21 season during Game 4 of the Western Conference semifinals where he injured his knee against Utah. Despite his absence, the Clippers advanced to the conference finals for the first time in the team’s history, eventually falling to Phoenix.
During the subsequent 2021-22 season, Leonard was sidelined entirely as he rehabilitated his knee. His resurgence in 2022-23 was thwarted by a meniscus tear, and once more, last season, a fresh injury restricted him to only two playoff games, resulting in the Clippers’ initial round exit against Dallas.
“My love for the game and my competitive spirit are the driving forces behind my return,” Leonard shared. “Life is a series of peaks and valleys, you just have to persevere.”
Leonard acknowledged the Clippers’ willingness to let him explore external medical opinions to guide his path to recovery alongside the team’s specialists.
“Trust is key,” Lue remarked, applauding the efforts of Maggie Bryant, the medical staff president, for guiding Leonard through alternative strategies to maintain health over the full 82-game season. “They didn’t allow any shortcuts, thoroughly ensured his readiness, and he’s been performing well,” Lue added.
Amidst previous setbacks, Leonard’s determination has sharpened. “I cherish every chance I get and aim to give my all while enjoying the experience,” he concluded.
Leonard has historically excelled in playoff scenarios, averaging 29.3 points with a 63% shooting percentage in 60 games from 2017 to 2020. “It’s about leaving everything on the court and entering the offseason with the satisfaction of having given your best,” Leonard stated.
The Clippers enter the postseason as NBA’s most formidable team, riding a wave of eight consecutive victories. Leonard capped off the regular season with an impressive 33-point performance during an overtime win against Golden State.
“There’s a noticeable difference when he can play at his best and stay healthy,” said teammate Norman Powell.