The Los Angeles Clippers faced the Golden State Warriors in their preseason opener on Saturday, ultimately falling 91-90, but the true story of the night was the return of superstar forward Kawhi Leonard. After enduring a tumultuous offseason marked by knee issues that kept him out of training camp and the Paris Olympics, Leonard took a significant step forward, playing the first half and showing signs of his former self.
At halftime, Leonard addressed the media, radiating positivity about his performance. “I feel good,” he stated. “Just been taking my time, getting stronger, and getting ready.” His approach has been methodical; he’s focused on day-to-day improvements, ensuring that he is prepared for a full return to form.
This past season was pivotal for Leonard, as he played in 68 regular-season games—the most since the 2016-17 season—averaging an impressive 23.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.6 steals while shooting 52.5% from the field and 41.7% from three. However, his postseason was cut short as he missed four games in the first-round series against the Dallas Mavericks, contributing to the Clippers’ early exit.
In a league where durability is essential, Leonard’s history with injuries looms large. He’s missed significant time over the past several seasons, which has raised questions about his long-term viability. Despite these challenges, his impact when healthy is undeniable. With accolades such as two-time NBA champion, two-time NBA Finals MVP, six-time All-NBA, and a member of the NBA 75th Anniversary team, Leonard’s pedigree speaks for itself.
Adding to the intrigue, Leonard signed a three-year, $153 million contract extension this offseason, ensuring he will remain in Los Angeles through the 2026-27 season. This decision reflects the Clippers’ faith in his abilities, despite the risk that comes with his injury history.
As Leonard enters his 14th season in the league, the focus is clear: to maintain his health and lead the Clippers deep into the playoffs for the first time since 2020. The signs from the preseason opener suggest that Leonard is on the right path, and if he can stay healthy, the Clippers could very well be a formidable force in the upcoming season.
With Leonard feeling fine and committed to his recovery, the Clippers and their fans are hopeful for a successful campaign ahead. The team will continue to monitor his workload carefully, especially when it comes to back-to-back games. For now, the optimism surrounding Leonard’s health is a breath of fresh air for the Clippers as they gear up for what promises to be an exciting NBA season.
