Kawhi Criticism has become a hot topic for NBA pundits and fans alike. Despite being a two-time NBA Finals MVP and a defensive powerhouse, Kawhi Leonard’s knack for being unavailable during critical games leaves the Los Angeles Clippers high and dry. It’s a classic case of “the best-laid plans often go awry.”
Paul George to Stephen A.: ‘Let It Go’ Over Kawhi Criticism
The latest chapter in this drama unfolded when Leonard was sidelined for all but two games of the 2024 NBA Playoffs due to a knee injury that plagued him late in the regular season. This injury also kept him out of the Clippers’ final eight regular-season games and Game 1 against the Dallas Mavericks.
Paul George, Leonard’s fellow All-Star, found himself defending his teammate on NBA Countdown. Co-host Stephen A. Smith sparked controversy with his bold statement, “Nobody on this planet knows what it’s like to play without a star like Paul George.”
When Injuries Strike
George, known as PG-13, may have managed a smile during the broadcast, but he later revealed on his podcast that Smith’s comment hit a raw nerve. “I didn’t appreciate that moment. I mean, I respect Stephen A., but sometimes you just need to let things go,” George stated emphatically.
Kawhi Leonard’s injury woes have been dissected ad nauseam. Despite playing 68 games this season, he only managed 161 in his first four seasons with the Clippers. George defended Leonard, emphasizing that injuries are beyond his control. “It’s not that Kawhi doesn’t want to play. He wants to be out there. People keep making it sound like he doesn’t care, but that’s just not true,” he declared.
Kawhi’s Season in Perspective
George went on to highlight Leonard’s commitment this season. Before his knee issue flared up, Leonard was on track to play over 70 games, averaging 23.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 3.6 assists. “We leaned on Kawhi heavily this year, maybe too much. At some point, the body just says ‘no more,'” George remarked.
Even though George attempted to maintain a light-hearted demeanor during the contentious NBA Countdown segment, he felt compelled to stand up for his teammate. “I laughed it off, but deep down, it bothered me. Sometimes, you just have to stand up and say, ‘Let it go, Stephen A.,'” George added.
Leonard’s durability has been a persistent issue, with critics questioning his ability to play through injuries. Until he can consistently shake off minor ailments and stay on the court, such criticisms are likely to dog him throughout his career.
The saga continues, and the debate rages on. As they say, “where there’s smoke, there’s fire,” but in this case, it’s a blaze fueled by injury and controversy.
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