As the NBA community had not seen the former All-Star, Victor Oladipo, play for multiple seasons, everyone had some sort of curiosity towards how his career was panning out overseas. But, against the LA Clippers, he did more than dominate; he had a statement game, which turned the head of Kawhi Leonard.
Moreover, it all started versus the San Antonio Spurs on Monday, where he recorded 20 points, five rebounds, five steals, and three assists in 29 minutes. Thus, the Clippers had an idea of what to expect from him in their matchup with the Guangzhou Loong-Lions.
Thursday’s preseason battle, the first for the Clippers and the second for the Loong-Lions, showcased a lot, in which Oladipo posted 24 points and five assists in 29 minutes, shooting 8-12 from the field and 2-4 from a distance.
Thus, Leonard spoke with ClutchPoints and had encouraging words for the veteran whose whole motive is to get back to the NBA.
Kawhi Leonard appears confident in Victor Oladipo after his showout performance against the Clippers
Kawhi Leonard had himself a game against the Guangzhou Loong-Lions in the LA Clippers’ preseason opener with 18 points in 18 minutes on a field goal percentage of 60% from the floor. Yet, while he was dominating, his words with ClutchPoints made it clear that he could not help but notice Victor Oladipo doing the same on the opposite side of the floor.
Furthermore, in a piece published by Tomer Azarly, one of the most reliable Clippers’ beat writers, it was mentioned that the two-time champion had positive feedback on Oladipo, as he added on a few of the possessions where the former All-Star flashed his skillset and athleticism at 33.
Therefore, if Leonard’s eyebrows were raised at Oladipo’s game, after not seeing him play since 2022-23, then the key takeaway is that he should not be out of the NBA.
If he can just prove to teams that he can stay healthy, which was one of his biggest struggles with the Miami Heat, then in the middle of the season, someone will offer him a veteran-minimum roster spot to finish out the season and contribute towards postseason placement.
There is even a chance the team could be the Clippers if they need wing depth later in the year. It will also be reassuring to know that the franchise star wants him on the team, given his reaction during the first preseason game.