Kawhi Leonard is back in the mix, and he’s got his eyes on the prize. But he’s not rushing itโno way. The Clippers’ star is all about taking it slow and steady, making sure he’s ready to roll when it counts.
Clippers’ Cautious Comeback
Kawhi’s been through the wringer with injuries, but he’s feeling good about his right knee after some serious rehab time in Hawaii. Heโs not diving into back-to-back games just yet, though. “I feel good,” Kawhi said during halftime of the Clippers’ nail-biting 91-90 preseason loss to the Warriors. “Just been taking my time, getting stronger and getting ready.” Smart move, I think. No need to rush and risk another setback.
Los Angeles Clippers superstar forward Kawhi Leonard says his knee feels fine after the team’s first preseason game.
โ Newsweek (@Newsweek)
Heโs all about playing it safe, listening to the docs, and keeping that knee in check. “Itโs more of just listening to the doctors and seeing what I can do to prevent what I have been doing because Iโve been doing a lot,” Kawhi shared. Gotta love a player who knows when to pump the brakes.
Chasing Rings, Not Just Games
Last season, Kawhi suited up for 68 gamesโthe most heโs played in seven yearsโbut missed the final stretch, including some playoff action. This year, he’s gunning for more. “This is what I work for,” he said. “I strive to get a championship and Iโm not out there to try to [solely] play 82 games. Iโm trying to win.” Canโt blame him. Who wants to be a regular-season hero if you canโt bring it in the playoffs?
DeRozan’s Take on Raptors’ Glory
Switching gears, remember that epic 2019 Raptors championship run? DeMar DeRozan has a spicy take on it. He thinks Toronto could’ve snagged the title even without Kawhi. Bold, right? It’s wild considering it was the trade that sent DeRozan to Texas and brought Kawhi to Canada. Talk about a plot twist!
DeRozan, now gearing up for a new chapter with the Kings, shared his thoughts on First Take with Stephen A. Smith. “Never to discredit those guys. They won it. They deserve it… But for sure. I definitely feel like that,” DeRozan said. He believes the only obstacle was LeBron, and with him out West, the Raptors had a clear shot.
So, what do you think? Is Kawhi playing it too safe, or is he setting himself up for another Finals MVP run? And could the Raptors have really done it without him? Let’s see how this season unfolds!
