The LA Clippers have emerged as the hottest team in the NBA, and it's all thanks to the incredible performance of their superstar, Kawhi Leonard. But here's where it gets controversial: is it Leonard's skill alone that has resurrected the team's season, or is there something more to this story?
Assistant coach Brian Shaw, who has the unique perspective of having both played with and coached the legendary Kobe Bryant, sees shades of Bryant in Leonard's recent play. Shaw highlights the intense work ethic that both players share, a quality that sets them apart.
To illustrate his point, Shaw recalls a moment from early in Bryant's career. On January 7, 2003, the Los Angeles Lakers were facing the Sonics in Seattle. A reporter's daughter had criticized Bryant's lack of a three-point shot, and Bryant, motivated by this critique, proceeded to shoot three after three, from every spot on the floor. That night, he broke an NBA record with a dozen three-pointers.
Fast forward to the present, and we see Leonard taking a similar approach. Despite the Clippers' disastrous start to the season, Leonard has quietly led the league in scoring and steals since December 20. His massive increase in perimeter shooting has been the key to the team's turnaround.
For nearly two years, the coaching staff had been encouraging Leonard to expand his range, knowing that it would take the team's offense to the next level. Assistant coach Jeremy Castleberry, who has worked with Leonard since his days in San Antonio, is affectionately known as the "Kawhi whisperer" for his ability to connect with the star player.
And this is the part most people miss: it was Leonard's willingness to try something new that sparked the team's success. With the team in dire straits, Leonard took charge and committed to shooting more from the outside. His career-high seven three-point attempts per game have opened up the court for his teammates, and the Clippers' offense has skyrocketed to second in the league.
But it's not just about the stats. Leonard's approach has made the game easier on his body, a crucial consideration given his history of injuries. When he's healthy and playing at this level, the Clippers' expectations soar.
James Harden, Leonard's teammate, believes he may be the closest Leonard has ever had. Harden has gained a unique understanding of Leonard's approach to the game, which revolves around optimizing his energy for meaningful playoff basketball. Leonard's dedication extends to his diet and lifestyle choices, from eschewing sugary drinks to practicing mindfulness and yoga.
Harden admires Leonard's resilience in the face of injury, a quality that sets him apart from most players. "Most people wouldn't have the mental capacity to keep coming back [from injury] the way he has, they'd have just given up," Harden said.
And this is where the story takes an interesting turn. Leonard's preference for alkaline water, specifically a premium brand from the Austrian Alps, is a testament to his commitment to his health and performance.
"He really loves basketball," Harden said. "And he works his ass off so he can keep playing."
Since that pivotal December game, Leonard has been the top-rated player in net rating among those with 500 or more minutes played. But the question remains: can Leonard and the Clippers sustain this momentum?
What do you think? Is Leonard's transformation the key to the Clippers' success, or is there more to this story? Weigh in with your thoughts in the comments below!
