When you think of Kawhi Leonard, you immediately envision James Harden by his side. They were a dynamic duo, but with the front office splitting their talents and the former MVP going to the Cleveland Cavaliers, there is only a select list of implications for Kawhi Leonard, depending on how the trade is viewed.
No matter the result, incoming guard Darius Garland teaming up with the two-time champion will certainly be a fun watch. It will be different, as fans are used to seeing the face of the franchise with veteran superstars, yet it is the kind of difference every fan will want to tune in for.
Thus, on the positive side, Leonard could play with the Clippers longer than most expect, and for those preparing for the worst, he may not be a Clipper much longer.
The Clippers’ front office switching things up may benefit Kawhi Leonard’s tenure
The wonder since Shai Gilgeous-Alexander rose to stardom has always been his fit with Kawhi Leonard. How would life for the LA Clippers be at the current moment if Leonard agreed to join without the addition of Paul George?
It will not be the same as it would have been with the 2025 MVP, but this season the combination of a young star and an aging superstar could work out.
Garland, given his age, could spam his offensive burst and rapid-twitching ability with the ball in his hands while playing for extended periods without becoming fatigued. This is the advantage of having a co-star who is only 26, and all things considered, each factor could lead to a deep playoff run, which will motivate the front office to extend Leonard.
James Harden evidently had some of the characteristics Garland brings, but at 36, there were some setbacks.
Darius Garland's arrival means Kawhi Leonard’s time in LA is nearing its end
When Kawhi Leonard signed with the LA Clippers, he wanted superstars around him from start to finish. He began with Paul George, then James Harden was added to the mix, but with both gone and Darius Garland in the picture, it may signal the end of Leonard’s tenure.
The timeline, particularly the age gap, is where the two stars differ. Although Leonard is highly regarded right now, the front office has a 26-year-old two-time All-Star on their hands; therefore, because he will carry the torch, several of the team's decisions will be centered around him.
At the end of the day, if the Clippers do not make any noise in the 2026 playoffs, Leonard may be on his way out. Lawrence Frank will dip both of LA’s feet into a rebuild and ship his best player elsewhere, who will be heading into the last year of his contract.