Lakers’ Missed Opportunity: The Kawhi Leonard Saga and Its Impact on Los Angeles Rivalry
The Los Angeles Lakers found themselves on the brink of a significant free agency coup that ultimately slipped through their fingers. The team’s history with star players has often been one of bold moves and high expectations, but in the summer of 2019, they watched as a potential All-Star addition turned into a rival’s gain.
The All-Star Chase
After orchestrating a blockbuster trade for Anthony Davis, a 10-time All-Star center/power forward, the Lakers were poised to make another monumental signing. Alongside LeBron James, a 21-time All-NBA forward, the Lakers had the salary cap flexibility to attract yet another superstar. The buzz around the league pointed toward Kawhi Leonard, a two-time Finals MVP and native Angeleno, as a prime target.
However, in a twist of fate, Leonard opted to sign a maximum deal with the LA Clippers. Not only did he choose to join the other Los Angeles franchise, but he also played a pivotal role in luring Paul George away from the Oklahoma City Thunder—a decision that would haunt the Clippers for years to come. The cost? A promising young talent in Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, along with a treasure trove of draft picks that could have bolstered their future.
The Lakers’ Resilience
Despite missing out on Leonard, the Lakers quickly adapted their strategy. The front office secured a number of key free agents, including Danny Green, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, JaVale McGee, Alex Caruso, Rajon Rondo, Avery Bradley, Quinn Cook, DeMarcus Cousins, Jared Dudley, and Troy Daniels. This diverse roster proved effective, leading the Lakers to an NBA Championship in the same season Leonard joined the Clippers—a stark contrast to the Clippers’ disappointing playoff exit after blowing a 3-1 series lead to the Denver Nuggets.
The Lakers continued to build on this foundation, making it back to the Western Conference Finals in 2023 with their dynamic duo of James and Davis. However, the elusive championship title remained out of reach, illustrating the unpredictability of NBA success.
Kawhi’s Journey with the Clippers
Leonard’s tenure with the Clippers has been a rollercoaster. Now in his seventh season with the team, Leonard has grappled with injuries that have plagued his performance. He missed an entire season due to injury and has only surpassed 57 games played in a single season since joining the Clippers. Additionally, he has managed to remain healthy during the playoffs on only two occasions.
However, when healthy, Leonard has maintained his status as a premier player in the league. In the current season, he has shown his scoring prowess, averaging 27.5 points per game with impressive shooting splits of .495 from the field, .375 from beyond the arc, and a perfect .976 from the free-throw line. His contributions extend beyond scoring, as he adds 6.5 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 2.1 steals, and 0.6 blocks per game.
Recent Success for the Clippers
Leonard’s recent performances have coincided with a surge in the Clippers’ fortunes. The team has secured four consecutive victories, and Leonard’s play has earned him the title of Western Conference Player of the Week. His resurgence is a positive sign for a franchise that has long sought to establish itself as a contender in the crowded Los Angeles basketball landscape.
As the Lakers and Clippers continue to navigate their respective paths in the league, the narrative around Kawhi Leonard’s decision to join the Clippers instead of the Lakers remains a pivotal chapter in their rivalry. The implications of that choice will undoubtedly reverberate through the seasons to come.
