3. Kawhi Leonard can guard bigs
File this one under the “We probably won’t see if often but don’t be surprised when it happens” category. In round one, Kristaps Porzingis was mostly guarded by Kawhi Leonard. Porzingis had an abbreviated series but it’s still worth noting.
It’s no secret that Kawhi is one of the best defenders in the league, possibly even the best when he’s fully engaged. Seeing him on big men is still a little surprising but works.
Is this me advocating that he should match up against Nikola Jokic? Of course not. What it does mean though is that the Clippers can switch on pick-and-rolls and still feel confident at getting a stop if Leonard is involved in the action.
Even if he’s not matched up on a big, Leonard is usually in the right place at the right time on his defensive rotations, even if that means sliding over to a big rolling into the paint. Justin Russo brilliantly shows that plus more of Leonard’s defensive game here:
With Jokic being the best playmaker out of the post in the league, Kawhi’s defensive brilliance will be a necessity.
Game one of the second round starts Thursday, September 3 at 6:00 PM PST. Prior to that, make sure to check back here for all your LA Clippers’ news, coverage, and more!