Kawhi Leonard snubbed initially, later named All-Star injury replacement. [Image Source: BASKETBALLNETWORK]
Kawhi Leonard, star forward for the Los Angeles Clippers, was initially left off the NBA All-Star rosters despite his strong performances this season but was later added as an injury replacement. The omission raised eyebrows, with NBA analyst and legend Reggie Miller describing Leonard’s exclusion as a “no-brainer” given his impact on the Clippers and his impressive statistics.
Clippers’ Turnaround Fueled by Leonard’s Performance
After an early-season slump that saw the Clippers start 6-21, the team has rebounded dramatically, winning 20 of their last 27 games. Leonard’s leadership and consistent production have been key factors in this turnaround. The two-time NBA Finals MVP has displayed remarkable efficiency and scoring ability, helping steer the Clippers back into playoff contention.
Leonard’s Season Statistics Highlight All-Star Credentials
In 41 games so far, Kawhi Leonard has averaged 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 2.1 steals per game. His shooting splits are equally impressive with a 49.1 percent field goal percentage, 38.3 percent from beyond the arc, and a 91.2 percent accuracy from the free throw line. These numbers underscore his status as one of the league’s elite two-way players.
Reggie Miller’s Praise and Explanation for Snub
During an interview promoting NBC Sports’ NBA All-Star Weekend coverage, Reggie Miller expressed disbelief at Leonard’s initial All-Star omission.
Image of: Kawhi Leonard
“There’s no questioning Kawhi Leonard’s resume,”
Miller said.
“A two-time champ and two-time Finals MVP. The question marks over the last several seasons have been the injuries and inability to play in the biggest moment in the playoffs. But go back to December, you can make the case that those are MVP-type numbers. It’s a no-brainer that he would be an All-Star game in his building and in his city.”
Since December 20th, Leonard’s performance has only improved, averaging 30 points, 6.9 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 2.2 steals per game while shooting nearly 50 percent from the field, 40 percent from three-point range, and 88.5 percent from the free throw line.
Historic Shooting Efficiency Puts Leonard in Elite Company
Leonard is one of only two players in the last 35 years to maintain a 300-game stretch averaging 24 points on 50-40-88 shooting splits, joining Kevin Durant in this rare feat. Notably, Leonard has achieved this mark exclusively during his tenure with the Clippers, highlighting his consistent high-level performance.
Miller Addresses Controversies but Focuses on On-Court Impact
Reggie Miller acknowledged the off-court controversies surrounding Leonard and the Clippers ownership but emphasized that these issues should not overshadow his basketball contributions.
“I was a little shocked that he initially wasn’t on the team,”
Miller remarked.
“You can say what you want about the controversy surrounding him and the owner. But that’s a different story. If we’re just talking X’s and O’s and who you would want on your team, he’s got to be top-two or two-three two-way players in today’s game.”
Similar Admiration from Carmelo Anthony for Leonard’s Consistency
NBC Sports analyst Carmelo Anthony, who has faced Leonard in 11 games, shared his admiration for Leonard’s condition and determination.
“Since December, Kawhi has been one of the top players in this league,”
Anthony said.
“He’s been in top-notch shape, some of the best shape that I’ve seen him in a long time. So for him to get in shape, get his mental right, and get his body right while going through all that they’re going through with the Clippers? They trade Norman Powell [in the offseason]. They trade James Harden. They start making these moves, and he’s still there and producing on a night-to-night basis. I think he deserved to be in this game, representing the Clippers, Los Angeles, and the NBA as a whole.”
Upcoming Games Mark a Test for Leonard and the Clippers
Looking ahead, the Clippers will begin the second half of their season on Thursday night in Los Angeles, hosting the Denver Nuggets. This matchup kicks off a back-to-back sequence with the Nuggets followed by the Los Angeles Lakers. Leonard’s continued leadership and performance will be crucial as the Clippers aim to maintain their momentum and improve their standing.
