Kawhi Leonard Prepares to Shine as Clippers Face Nuggets

INGLEWOOD, Calif. (AP) — Kawhi Leonard is poised to make a significant impact this postseason after missing the majority of the last two playoffs due to injury. The 33-year-old Los Angeles Clippers star is set to rejoin his team as they face the Denver Nuggets in the first round starting Saturday, ready to showcase his skills and leadership on the court.

Leonard closed the regular season on a high note, scoring 33 points in an overtime victory against the Golden State Warriors. “Just happy that I was able to get here,” he said, acknowledging his teammates for their efforts leading up to the playoffs. “My teammates did a great job down that last stretch.”

After struggling with knee injuries that sidelined him for 34 games this season, Leonard’s return has reinvigorated the Clippers. They finished with a remarkable 18 wins in their last 21 games, establishing themselves as the NBA’s top offense during that stretch. Coach Tyronn Lue praised Leonard’s performance, stating, “It feels good for us, and him playing at a high level helps our team out tremendously.” He further commended Leonard for the dedication he has shown in returning to form.

Leonard has had a turbulent playoff history in recent years. He suffered a knee injury during the 2020-21 playoffs, which kept him out of the Eastern Conference finals, and he missed all of the 2021-22 season while rehabilitating. Last season, after a promising return, he faced another injury, limiting him to just two playoff appearances as the Clippers were eliminated in the first round by the Dallas Mavericks.

Reflecting on his journey, Leonard said, “I love the game and I have a passion for it still. I love to compete out there… Just keeping going through the ups and downs in life.”

Lue acknowledged the collaborative effort from the Clippers’ medical staff and Leonard’s own determination to achieve full health. “The biggest thing is just trusting,” he noted, crediting medical staff president Maggie Bryant for guiding Leonard through his recovery process. “They didn’t let him shortcut, checked every box before he came back and he’s been feeling good.”

Looking ahead to the postseason, Leonard emphasized the importance of not taking his opportunity for granted. “Just don’t take the opportunity for granted and try to play my best, and that’s it,” he said, focusing on enjoying the game once again.

Leonard has a proven track record in the playoffs, averaging 29.3 points and shooting 63% during previous postseason appearances. “It’s just leaving it all out on the floor and going into the summer knowing that you tried to give it your all,” he added. As the Clippers enter the playoffs having won their last eight games, Leonard’s strong finish adds to the optimism surrounding the team. Teammate Norman Powell noted, “You can just tell when he’s able to play and be healthy and play the game he loves at the level that he knows he can play at.”