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Clippers Kawhi Leonard continues offseason grind

By Hans Themistode

LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 25: Kawhi Leonard #2 of the Los Angeles Clippers warms up for the game against the Los Angeles Lakers at Staples Center on December 25, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jayne Kamin-Oncea/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CA - DECEMBER 25: Kawhi Leonard #2 of the Los Angeles Clippers warms up for the game against the Los Angeles Lakers at Staples Center on December 25, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jayne Kamin-Oncea/Getty Images) /
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Kawhi Leonard will never be mistaken as loquacious. Still, despite being soft-spoken, Leonard is anxious to return to the court and lead the LA Clippers to an NBA Championship.

After spending the entirety of the 2021-22 season sequestered on the sidelines while he recovered from a torn ACL, Leonard appears to be well on track to returning to the court for not only the start of next season but also training camp.

Even with Leonard working out relentlessly during the regular season, the former two-time Defensive Player of the Year refuses to take time off, even during the offseason.

Of course, prior to his injury, Leonard was considered one of, if not the very best, two-way player in the entire NBA. During the 2020-21 season, Leonard was named to his fifth All-Star Game thanks to averages that consisted of 24.8 points, 6.5 rebounds, and a career-high 5.2 assists.

Putting those eye-popping numbers aside, Leonard was even better during the postseason, averaging 30.4 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 4.4 dimes in 11 games. While Leonard’s absence from the court last season was disappointing, it was hardly surprising.

Regardless of his recent injury woes, Leonard appears determined to return to his elite-level status. With Leonard back in the mix, the former five-time All-Star, along with Paul George, Norman Powell, Reggie Jackson, and Ivica Zubac – the Clippers are expected to be amongst the league’s top contenders.

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