Clippers Hoping Kawhi Leonard Stays Even If They Fail To Win NBA Title

Kawhi Leonard’s contract with the Los Angeles Clippers is good up to the end of this NBA season, and most are wondering if he will leave the team.

The two-time NBA champion could opt to check out offers that are likely to be pitched, but a report claims otherwise.

Despite their struggles, the 29-year-old may stick with the Clippers after this season. This is with the understanding that no drama unfolds.

However, that does not include possibly seeing the Clips fall short anew of achieving their goal–winning the NBA title. This was suggested by Sam Amick of The Athletic.

Recall that in a previous post, it was suggested that Leonard was intrigued by the possibility of joining the Miami Heat.

That could have been a wise move considering Leonard would instantly join a contender. But if that report from The Athletic is true, it may be safe to assume that the five-time All-Star may be content being in Los Angeles although the Clippers cannot rest their laurels and heave a big sigh of relief just yet.

The reality of it all for the Clippers is that the team is dealing with injuries to key players.

There is perhaps no better player to point out other than Paul George. An injury has relegated him to a potential managed minutes setup due to right foot soreness.

Leonard, George and the Clippers are now trying the best course of action for the rest of the season.

But beyond that, the Clippers have other players like Patrick Beverly and Serge Ibaka not at 100% health. The team did take in DeMarcus Cousins but only on a 10-day deal.

“Boogie” did perform well in his first game, and now head coach Tyronn Lue is hoping that Cousins can stay beyond that short-term lease.

If the All-Star center keeps his level of play up, he could be another critical piece for the Clippers, possibly beyond the 2020-21 NBA season. But this is also on the premise that Los Angeles can still afford to keep him.