Los Angeles Clippers fans have eagerly awaited Kawhi Leonard’s return. Since his comeback from injury, the star forward has proven to be a critical piece in the team’s recent success. Leonard’s contributions have helped the Clippers rise to the second-best defense in the NBA. On Sunday, they showed dominance with a commanding 116-102 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers.
One of the game’s most memorable moments came when Leonard faced Lakers guard Austin Reaves. After executing a sharp dribble move, Leonard caused Reaves to lose his balance and fall. Leonard seized the opportunity and calmly drained a mid-range shot.
Kawhi Leonard had Austin Reaves on the floor with the FILTHY move for the bucket 😳pic.twitter.com/jj2c8iu6Xd
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) January 20, 2025
Despite being on a minutes restriction, Leonard was highly efficient. He finished the game with 19 points, four assists, and one steal in just 24 minutes.
His presence on both ends of the court was a major factor in the Clippers’ victory. Leonard’s return has also bolstered the team’s winning mentality, as he now boasts the fifth-highest winning percentage in NBA history (72.8%).
Kawhi Leonard Reflects On Surpassing 14,000 Career Points
On Sunday, Kawhi Leonard reached a significant career milestone, surpassing 14,000 career points during the Clippers’ game against the Lakers. However, Leonard downplayed the achievement after the game and shared his team-first mentality and gratitude for the opportunity.
“I’m not looking at that as a milestone. I’m more of a team guy and get the win..be the last team standing. But thank God for being able to get that opportunity. Most people don’t. I take every opportunity and blessing and don’t take it for granted,” Leonard said.
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Since returning from injury, Leonard has played only five games, during which the Clippers have gone 4-1. Leonard has averaged 13.6 points, 2.6 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game in that stretch.
