Kawhi Leonard has had an All-Star-level performance this season. The Los Angeles Clippers stumbled out of the gate at the beginning of the season, posting a record of 6-21. Over the next 21 games, they went on a huge turnaround, going 17-5. They have put themselves back in the playoff hunt. Leonard served as a major catalyst for this resurgence, going on an offensive stretch in which he scored at least 20 points in 25 consecutive games, etching himself in the Clippers’ franchise history as one of four players to achieve this milestone.
In those 21 games, Leonard averaged 29.3 points, 6.4 rebounds, and four assists. As the team approaches the break, Leonard’s contributions have them occupying the ninth seed, 4.5 games back of the Golden State Warriors. His all-star performance has been crucial to the Clippers’ upswing.
Kawhi Leonard’s All-Star Season Raises Questions Over Late Nod
Leonard’s Late Selection Despite His Excellence
Despite willing his team into the playoff picture with a stellar stretch, Leonard received a late All-Star selection to fill the quota of American-born All-Stars. Adding Leonard brought the total number of U.S. All-Stars to the minimum required number of 16.
The timing of his All-Star nod sparks questions. His consistent level of play and leadership should’ve earned him earlier recognition, considering his impact on the Clippers’ season. LeBron James received the All-Star nod before Leonard, despite having comparable, and in some instances, better numbers. Leonard is currently having a near 50/40/90 season, with a player efficiency rating of 27.3 compared to James’ 50/35/73 and an efficiency rating of 21.2. Statistically, Leonard’s impact has been just as much, if not more than James’. It’s true the Los Angeles Lakers have performed better and have a stronger record, sitting comfortably in the fifth seed at 30-19. However, Leonard’s individual performance has elevated the Clippers to play-in contention and deserves recognition.
Leonard’s Availability and Efficiency
Feb 2, 2026; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) moves the ball against the Philadelphia 76ers during the second half at Intuit Dome. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
Some critics like to point towards Leonard’s unavailability or load management. However, he has appeared in 36 games this season, five more than James. James did not suit up for the Lakers until the 15th game of the season, being sidelined by sciatica at the start. He missed nearly a month of the regular season at the beginning. Despite this, he has put up all-star-caliber numbers.
However, good enough numbers to receive the nod over Leonard? James’ selection may have been influenced less by his current performance this season and more by his legacy and status around the league.
Leonard has been manning the ship of one of the hottest teams in the league since Christmas. He has been putting up numbers with great efficiency. Beyond the box score, Leonard has provided the Clippers with leadership that has kept the Clippers afloat. This is impressive as it was during a stretch where they could’ve collapsed and dashed their playoff hopes. This makes the timing of his All-Star selection all the more puzzling.
While team success should weigh heavily, so should Leonard’s consistent, elite-level performance and efficiency, which has been the driving force in the Clippers’ season turnaround. Leonard’s elite play and efficiency should have earned him the nod long before the league officially added him to the roster.
Featured Image: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images