Kawhi Leonard’s long-awaited return to the Los Angeles Clippers has sparked major discussions, with Gilbert Arenas and The Gil’s Arena Crew analyzing the impact of the two-time NBA champion’s comeback. As Leonard joins the Clippers lineup once again, fans are eagerly anticipating how his presence will influence the team’s performance for the rest of the season.
Despite a small sample size, Arenas and his crew are optimistic about Leonard’s return. The consensus is that the seasoned forward will prove his worth, especially in the areas of shooting, with his mid-range and three-point accuracy considered key strengths. As long as players like James Harden continue to create opportunities, Leonard is expected to shake off the rust and get back to his elite form by the time the playoffs roll around, post-All-Star break.
While Leonard hasn’t played “real basketball” since early 2023, his Hall of Fame career speaks volumes. Though some may question his ability to bounce back quickly, most expect Leonard to find his rhythm within a few weeks. By playoff time, he’s projected to be in peak form.
The Clippers are currently tied for 6th in the standings, but Leonard’s return could elevate them to a higher position. Some even suggest that with him in the lineup, the team could crack the top 4. However, managing Leonard’s minutes is a key discussion point—fans and analysts alike agree that limiting him to around 25 minutes per game will be crucial for keeping him fresh for the long haul.
The Clippers have been able to hold their own without Leonard, but his return is expected to improve both their offense and defense. With Norman Powell stepping up as the team’s primary scorer in Leonard’s absence, the Clippers will have to figure out how to integrate Leonard back into the mix. The team’s success moving forward largely depends on how well they manage his role and minutes.
There’s still some uncertainty, however, about Leonard’s full impact. A recent poll revealed that 63% of fans were skeptical about his return this season, citing concerns over his injury history and limited minutes. But as Leonard works to shake off the rust, the Clippers’ future playoff hopes are looking brighter than ever.
