Kawhi Leonard is a two-time NBA champion and two-time NBA Finals MVP. His tenure with the Los Angeles Clippers has been anything but simple, riddled with injuries, contract negotiations, and key decisions on his playing status. Leonard was recently given a night off for “load management” due to an undisclosed left knee sprain. As a result, there has been rampant speculation about his health and subsequent long-term viability with the team. As the Clippers navigate salary cap flexibility and second-apron restrictions, Leonard remains a pivotal figure in their plans, eligible for a substantial contract extension next summer.
Leonard’s history of injuries, often chronicled, includes two torn ligaments in his right ankle suffered in 2022. His tenure with the San Antonio Spurs ended in rancor. A growing rift around approaches to his health care raised concerns that his medical problems may be degenerative and would require long-term care. No one will be more conscious of this than the Clippers as they continue down the Leonard path. In fact, he’s only played in 42% of their games since joining the team.
As the 2023-24 campaign develops, Leonard will be pulling in $50 million next year—fully guaranteed, of course. On top of that, he becomes eligible for one of those juicy four-year max contract extensions ($220 million). Given the challenges of managing his health, the decision to prioritize salary cap flexibility during contract negotiations has become a focal point for the Clippers.
Health Management Concerns
Leonard’s recent choice to sit out a game for “load management” reflects a trend we’ve seen throughout his storied career. That he had missed a game earlier in the season for the same reason compounded his frustration. These decisions emphasize the lingering issue of his health and its effect on his availability.
“That’s my answer. I just won’t answer.” – Kawhi Leonard
Beyond external perception, the Clippers have had genuine internal strife created by how Leonard’s health has been managed. One source with knowledge of the situation noted, “He was very separate from [the Clippers’] staff.” This division has caused an unprecedented level of “blowback…anger…devastation…extreme angst within the medical department,” according to one former insider.
The increase in sensitivity around Leonard’s health management arises from the history, especially during his tenure with the Spurs. The Clippers have learned from that situation, aiming to foster better communication and understanding regarding Leonard’s well-being.
Contractual Considerations
With Leonard entering the 2023-24 season extension eligible, the Clippers will have key decisions to make regarding his future. The team’s management has prioritized salary cap flexibility while acknowledging Leonard’s substantial salary of $50 million next season and the potential for a max contract extension worth $220 million.
Clippers owner Steve Ballmer has clarified questions about Leonard’s health and the negotiations on his contract. He emphasized that “we’ve done the right thing in all those interactions,” reinforcing that Leonard’s business decisions remain separate from team operations.
“But what’s most important to me is we’ve done the right thing in all those interactions. Kawhi’s business is Kawhi’s business. But we’ve always done the right thing.” – Steve Ballmer
The Clippers would need to choose wisely, as Leonard’s contract is up after the 2026-27 season. They’ve just put too many political resources into him. Now, they have to meet the health challenges posed by his numerous health issues and the performance challenge of high expectations.
Performance on the Court
Although Leonard has dealt with serious injuries, when he plays – like this past season – he is one of the best. In a recent game against the Denver Nuggets, he scored 39 points on an impressive 15-of-19 shooting, showcasing his ability to dominate despite lingering uncertainties regarding his health.
Tyronn Lue, head coach of the Clippers, previously expressed the difficulty of dealing with media scrutiny surrounding Leonard’s status: “He was in [the whole time], but I didn’t want to hear from all these [media] guys, so I tried to protect myself as long as I could.”
As Leonard’s status continues to change, the Clippers would be well-advised to continue this pattern of making loud moves to find success. Ballmer articulated this approach clearly: “We’re going to be bold. Bold means taking chances.”
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