The Los Angeles Clippers’ aspirations of championship glory have been repeatedly dashed by injuries, inconsistencies, and unfulfilled potential. At the center of these struggles is Kawhi Leonard, the two-time Finals MVP whose storied career has been marred by injuries in recent years. As the Clippers wade through the 2024-2025 season with Leonard sidelined yet again, the question looms: is it the end of the road for Kawhi and this Clippers experiment?
How We Got Here
Kawhi Leonard burst onto the scene as a defensive anchor for the San Antonio Spurs, earning Finals MVP honors in 2014. His 2019 championship run with the Toronto Raptors cemented him as one of the game’s greats. However, his time with the Clippers, which began in 2019, has been defined by injuries and unmet expectations.
The Clippers paired Leonard with Paul George in hopes of forming a dynasty, but injuries derailed their playoff runs. Adding James Harden to the mix this season was an attempt to salvage their championship window, but the move has yet to yield results. Leonard’s chronic injury issues remain the largest roadblock.
This Season
Kawhi Leonard hadn’t even practiced with the team up until recently as he recovers from yet another injury, per the latest update from head coach Tyronn Lue. At 33 years old, Leonard’s body has shown signs of wear, and his absence leaves a massive void for the Clippers.
The reality is grim for Leonard. His explosiveness and ability to dominate on both ends of the floor are now inconsistent. The Clippers, meanwhile, appear to be treading water with little optimism for either Leonard’s health or the team’s chances.
Although the team is slightly above .500 and still within playoff contention in the tough Western Conference, the reality of the situation is that this team isn’t capable of much more than a first-round exit at their absolute best.
The Clippers As Of Now
Without Leonard, the Clippers are leaning heavily on 35-year-old James Harden. While Harden has been a prolific scorer and playmaker throughout his career, his age and diminishing impact in the postseason raise concerns about his ability to lead a team deep into the playoffs.
Beyond Harden, the Clippers’ roster lacks significant depth or emerging talent to carry the load. Players like Paul George and Russell Westbrook have moments of brilliance, but their inconsistency further limits the team’s ceiling. This lack of supporting pieces is a direct consequence of the team’s blockbuster trade for Paul George in 2019.
Where Do They Go From Here?
The Clippers are in a precarious position. Their trade for Paul George in 2019 depleted their draft capital, sending Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Danilo Gallinari, and multiple first-round picks (2022, 2024, 2026) to the Thunder. Gilgeous-Alexander has since blossomed into an All-NBA talent, while the Clippers’ lack of trade assets and draft flexibility leaves them little room to rebuild or make significant changes.
The team’s championship window has effectively closed unless Leonard can return to form, which seems unlikely given his injury history. The Clippers may have to consider blowing up the roster and starting a long-overdue rebuild, even if it means a painful transition period.
Overall—It’s Not Looking Good
The dream of a championship led by Kawhi Leonard and Paul George has turned into a nightmare for the Clippers. Injuries have derailed their plans, and the team now faces a harsh reality with aging stars, a depleted roster, and little hope for a quick turnaround.
Kawhi Leonard’s legacy is secure as one of the NBA’s greatest players, but his time as a franchise centerpiece may be nearing its end. For the Clippers, it’s time to reevaluate their future—and perhaps accept that this era has run its course.
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