The Los Angeles Clippers notched their seventh straight win as Kawhi Leonard torched the New York Knicks for 36 points in 30 minutes of action. The two-time NBA Finals MVP shot a remarkable 12-16 from the field and nailed 5 3-pointers on 6 attempts. He also added 7 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 steals.
“We still got to continue to keep getting better,” Clippers coach Tyronn Lue said, “but the progress is being made.”
Over his last five games, Leonard has averaged 33.8 points on 65.5% shooting. Despite a quiet start to the season, the Klaw has averaged 24.0 points and 1.6 steals through 25 outings while shooting a career-high 44.1% clip from three.
“Just clicking with everybody on the team,” Leonard said. “We’re in a good rhythm right now. There are some minor things we still need to get better at.”
Against the Knicks, Los Angeles recorded 36 team assists on 50 total field goals while committing just eight turnovers. The red-hot Clippers now rank sixth in the Western Conference standings with a 15-10 record. They own the longest current winning streak in the NBA.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Kawhi Leonard, Los Angeles Clippers, New York Knicks Updates
Leonard focused on his team’s championship aspirations in response to a question about his recent stretch of individual play.
“I’m focused on something bigger than that stretch,” Leonard said.
Considering his lengthy injury history, Leonard has given Clippers fans a welcome surprise this season with his excellent availability. The five-time All-Star has played in every game so far, and running mate Paul George has only missed one contest.
Since acquiring Leonard back in 2019, the Clippers have put together an impressive 125-61 record when the two-way superstar plays. However, Leonard has missed at least 20 games in each of his last three seasons, including the 2021-22 season in which he sat out with a torn ACL.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Kawhi Leonard, Los Angeles Clippers, New York Knicks Updates
At 32 years old, Leonard will need his talented costars to perform when the lights shine brightest. Both James Harden and PG have suffered their fair share of playoff woes during their Hall-of-Fame careers. However, a healthy trio of Leonard, Harden, and George provides undeniable potential that could lead to a first-ever Clippers championship.
