Kawhi Leonard gets ‘playoff mode’ from Tyronn Lue
The The season of the Los Angeles Clippers has started to turn aroundand their 119–105 win over Washington Wizards it felt like another step forward. Kawhi Leonard once again they set the tone as they extended their winning streak to four games. The The Clippers are still 17-23 and #11 in the Westsomething has shifted though. Head coach Tyronn Lue now he sees it clearly: “Playoff” Kawhi Leonard has taken over. Leonard has the sixth highest Playoff PER in NBA history at 24.2, and that same edge is showing up again.
According to Clippers beat writer Joey Lin, Lue said, “The mode he’s in right now, it’s like coaching Kawhi in the playoffs. He gets to the playoffs, he’s going to the next level. Ever since that Laker game, I’ve thought he’s going to the next level. Every night he wants us to go through. That was huge for us as was the win.” That turning point came on December 20, when the Clippers defeated the Los Angeles Lakers 103–88. Leonard led that night with 32 points and 12 rebounds. That aggression never faded.
Against the Wizards, he was in full control again. Leonard scored 33 points on 9-of-22 shooting, 7-of-11 from three and went a perfect 8-of-8 at the line. He added three rebounds, four assists and four steals. Every run was led by him. Every stop was personal.
Kawhi is pulling the Clippers back into the running
Kawhi Leonard’s number of seasons matches the eye test. In 30 games, he is averaging 28.2 points, 6.3 rebounds and 3.5 assists, while shooting 49.7 percent from the field and 39.9 percent from deep. His 94.1 percent free throw rate closes the door late. His 2.2 steals per game keep the pressure high.
The Clippers are still chasing the playoff line, but the faith is back. Kawhi Leonard’s “Playoff” forces the issue. Lue believes in change. Under the lights, Los Angeles feels dangerous again. So how far can this version of Kawhi really take them?
2026-01-15 13:40:00
