Amidst Kawhi Leonard’s current injury setback, Clippers fans undoubtedly share in the disappointment of his absence from the crucial Game 6 playoff clash against the Dallas Mavericks.
This occurrence, however, isn’t entirely unfamiliar, particularly in postseason play, prompting a challenging inquiry: How much have Kawhi Leonard’s recent playoff experiences impacted his overall legacy?
To understand the present, let’s revisit Leonard’s tumultuous departure from the San Antonio Spurs, where his availability on the court came into question.
Despite his pivotal role in securing the NBA Finals MVP in the 2013-2014 season, tensions arose surrounding his injury management, notably during the 2017-2018 season. Coach Gregg Popovich’s seemingly veiled comments praising another player further exacerbated the rift.
Subsequently, Leonard sought a new start, finding success with the Toronto Raptors, culminating in an unexpected championship victory. This redemption narrative, coupled with his reconciliation with Popovich, elevated Leonard’s status as a highly sought-after free agent in 2019.
The decision to join the Clippers, alongside Paul George, marked a significant chapter, though it raised eyebrows given the hefty cost and subsequent scrutiny, especially in light of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander’s ascent with the Thunder.
Yet, assessing Leonard’s on-court performances over the past four seasons offers a sobering reality check. The Clippers’ heartbreaking collapse in the 2020 playoffs signaled the start of a series of unfortunate playoff exits, with Leonard’s injuries often playing a pivotal role.
The partial ACL tear during the 2021 playoffs sidelined him, leaving the Clippers to navigate without their star player in critical moments. Despite a valiant effort to reach the Western Conference Finals, Leonard’s absence was keenly felt.
The subsequent season saw Leonard sidelined for the entirety of the 2021-2022 campaign due to his ACL recovery, dampening hopes for a resurgence.
While Leonard displayed promise early in the current season, signing a lucrative extension, his recurrent knee issues have once again cast doubt on his availability. The perpetual uncertainty surrounding his injuries leaves fans questioning his durability and commitment, echoing past injury woes that plagued the Clippers in eras past.
As Leonard’s absence looms over pivotal playoff encounters, the ambiguity surrounding his health and its impact on his legacy becomes increasingly apparent. While his accolades shine brightly, the shadow of persistent postseason setbacks threatens to tarnish his enduring legacy.
