The streak of scoring 20 or more points for franchise superstar Kawhi Leonard continued to 11 games as the LA Clippers obliterated the Dallas Mavericks by 23, 114-91. Though the Mavericks used their best defender, Naji Marshall, on Leonard, he got busy on all three levels.
Leonard capped the win with exactly 20 points, shooting 8-17 from the field and 2-5 from beyond the arc. This was notably done in 24 minutes, which were spaced out given the increasing scoring rift that bloomed to as far as 35 points.
Moreover, the Clippers will rematch with the Mavericks at the same time and place tomorrow night. However, before today’s contest, the training staff made it evident that playing Leonard on the front end would sideline him on the back end.
What makes this interesting is that Dallas superstar Anthony Davis was questionable today, but before action, the Mavericks downgraded him to out because of a left abductor strain. This ultimately indicates he will be ready on the second night of the back-to-back.
Furthermore, the Clippers have plans to win whatever is left on their schedule. This is more of a need than a want, as another loss would solidify their seeding in the play-in tournament, which is undesirable.
Therefore, head coach Tyronn Lue revealed the news on Leonard that has not been touched in ages.
Lue suggests re-evaluation on Kawhi Leonard possibly playing in a back-to-back
By factoring the times Kawhi Leonard has injured his knees, had surgery, and recovered quickly, fans do not criticize him as he is physically not cleared to play on consecutive nights. Tyronn Lue has previously spoken about Leonard being eager to suit up, but the staff proposes not to.
Following the buzzer against Dallas, NBA insider Law Murray communicated to fans via social media that Leonard will receive an additional re-evaluation.
Kawhi Leonard will be “re-evaluated” tomorrow so he could play on zero days rest, per Tyronn Lue
— Law Murray 💭🚫 (@LawMurrayTheNU) April 5, 2025
This is senseless, as the postseason is in sight, and Dallas is a team the Clippers can beat without Leonard. Lue and his staff must ease how much pressure his body can endure rather than looking to increase it.
The Clippers have two back-to-back sets to round off the year, including their current. Their final is between the San Antonio Spurs and Houston Rockets.
That said, Leonard’s availability on smaller amounts of rest than usual is major news that concerns fans. Clipper Nation hopes for one healthy playoff run from the two-time champion, and adding to the risk in the regular season is the wrong decision.
