Kawhi Leonard is on a roll, and the Los Angeles Clippers are thriving as a result. Kicking off the new year in spectacular fashion, Leonard poured in 45 points on an impressive 16-for-29 shooting performance, leading the Clippers to their sixth consecutive victory with a 118-101 triumph over the Utah Jazz.
The star forward has seemingly cast aside his past injury struggles, playing at an elite level reminiscent of his status as one of the NBA’s top talents. As the Clippers continue their upward trajectory following a rocky start to the 2025-26 season, there is an air of optimism surrounding the team’s future.
In a light-hearted moment during a break at the Intuit Dome, Leonard humorously shared a New Year’s resolution for his teammate, James Harden. He expressed his hope that Harden could eat food without getting it in his beard, bringing a touch of camaraderie and humor to the team dynamic.
“I want to see if he could eat food without getting it in his beard all year,” Leonard quipped, showcasing not only his playful side but also the sense of unity within the squad.
Leonard’s recent performances have placed him firmly in the conversation for MVP consideration, especially as he has been exceptional during the Clippers’ winning streak. He has averaged 39 points, 8.5 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 4.2 combined steals and blocks over the last six games, boasting impressive shooting percentages of 53% from the field, 44% from three-point range, and 94% from the free-throw line.
While questions remain about the sustainability of this level of excellence, Leonard has defied expectations, especially considering his history with injuries that previously threatened his career. His current form signals not only a personal resurgence but also revitalizes hope for the Clippers’ prospects in the season ahead. With Leonard fully engaged and leading the charge, fans can be optimistic about what’s to come for this team.