Revitalized Kawhi Leonard Leads Clippers into Playoffs with Renewed Passion and Health

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INGLEWOOD, Calif. (AP)—This year, Kawhi Leonard is feeling revitalized both physically and mentally, no longer confined to watching from the sidelines as the LA Clippers gear up for the playoffs.

After being limited to just two playoff appearances over the last two seasons, the 33-year-old two-time Finals MVP is back to full health and performing like his former self as the fifth-seeded Clippers prepare to face the fourth-seeded Nuggets in the opening round starting Saturday in Denver.

“I’m just grateful to be in this position,” he remarked. “My teammates really stepped up during that final stretch.”

Since Leonard regained his health and rhythm, the Clippers have transformed significantly. He missed the first 34 games of the season due to ongoing issues with his surgically repaired knees.

Los Angeles clinched 18 victories in their last 21 games, showcasing the top offense in the NBA during that period.

“Our team benefits tremendously from him playing at such a high level,” said coach Tyronn Lue. “I’m proud of all the effort he’s put in to reach this stage and be in good health as the season concludes.”

Following the surprising firing of Michael Malone, the Clippers may have a significant edge over the Nuggets with Tyronn Lue leading the way.

Leonard has secured two NBA titles—one with San Antonio and another with Toronto—but injuries have plagued his five seasons in Los Angeles.

In the 2020-21 season, a knee injury in Game 4 of the Western Conference semifinals against Utah ended his playoff run prematurely, although the Clippers made it to the conference finals for their first time, ultimately falling to Phoenix.

Leonard missed the entire 2021-22 season while recovering from knee surgery. He returned in 2022-23 but suffered a torn meniscus during the first round of the playoffs. Last season, after injuring his right knee, he played only two games as the Clippers were eliminated in the first round by Dallas.

“My love for the game and my competitive spirit drive me,” he expressed. “Navigating life’s ups and downs is part of the journey, and I just keep moving forward.”

Leonard has mentioned how the Clippers encouraged him to seek external health evaluations while combining that knowledge with the team’s medical staff to achieve recovery.

“The key is trust,” Lue stated, acknowledging team medical staff president Maggie Bryant for helping Leonard explore various methods for securing his health as the regular season’s 82 games came to a close.

“They ensured he didn’t cut corners, meticulously checked every aspect before his return, and he’s feeling great,” Lue shared.

The challenges and injuries have sharpened Leonard’s focus.

“I’m just making sure to seize this opportunity and play to the best of my abilities—that’s all I can do. I’m here to enjoy the game,” he said.

Historically, Leonard has excelled in the postseason, averaging 29.3 points while shooting 63% in 60 playoff games from 2017 to 2020.

“It’s about giving everything on the court and entering the summer knowing you’ve put forth your best effort,” he commented.

As the postseason kicks off, the Clippers are riding high, having won their last eight games, with Leonard scoring 33 points on 13-of-20 shooting in an overtime victory against Golden State to wrap up the regular season.

“You can see it when he’s healthy and able to perform at the level he loves,” said teammate Norman Powell.