The surge of the LA Clippers as the hottest team in the NBA might just surprise many fans and analysts alike. But here's where it gets controversial: what if their recent success is all about one superstar, and not just luck or coaching? Let’s explore the fascinating reasons behind this unexpected rise, especially focusing on a player whose transformation has been nothing short of remarkable.
LA Clippers assistant coach Brian Shaw, who has the unique perspective of having played alongside Kobe Bryant and later coached him, cautiously avoids direct comparisons to Kobe. Yet, his experience grants him a rare insight into what makes players like Bryant and today’s standout, Kawhi Leonard, excel. Shaw admits there's a striking similarity in their work ethic—an almost obsessive dedication to improving and perfecting their craft.
Shaw often recalls a story from early in Bryant's career, which exemplifies this relentless drive. It was January 7, 2003, during a game in Seattle against the Sonics, when Shaw was one of the seasoned veterans on the Lakers' bench. A reporter from Seattle asked Bryant, somewhat jokingly, about his game, mentioning that his daughter admired his skills but noted, 'if there's one thing missing, it’s your three-point shot.' Bryant’s response was telling. He pointed to her, encouraging her to watch him that night, then proceeded to shoot a flurry of three-pointers from all over the court—ending the night with a record-breaking dozen three-pointers, fueled by a desire to prove the doubters wrong.
Fast forward to today, Kawhi Leonard’s game bears the same kind of subtle yet impactful evolution. While the exact “goad” isn’t identical, the essence remains—the will to push boundaries and defy limitations. The proof is in the results: despite a rocky 6-21 start, the Clippers are now among the NBA’s top teams, largely thanks to Leonard’s transformation.
For nearly two years, the Clippers’ coaching staff pleaded with Leonard to broaden his shooting range. They recognized his natural comfort with midrange shots and his preference for dominating inside, but they knew expanding his perimeter shooting would exponentially boost the team’s offensive capabilities. The coaching staff also understood Leonard’s meticulous approach to health—his cautiousness about contact and injury risk—and aimed to help him adapt his game without risking health.
Finally, in December, Leonard embraced this challenge. He openly committed to shooting more three-pointers, promising his coach Tyronn Lue that he would attempt 12 threes in a game. And just like Bryant in Seattle years ago, Leonard followed through—averaging a career-high in three-point attempts, especially after Dec. 20. His willingness to shoot more from beyond the arc came from the team’s desperate need for change. Leonard explains that he saw it as a strategic move: shooting from deep, even if initially unsuccessful, could inspire his teammates to take more outside shots and stretch the defense.
Since making this shift, Leonard’s three-point shooting percentage has climbed to over 43%, transforming the Clippers’ offense from mediocre to elite. With defenders now forced to guard him on the perimeter, space opens up for drives and cuts, elevating the team’s scoring to nearly eight additional points per 100 possessions. Their recent 16-3 run in the last 19 games highlights how impactful this change has been.
Importantly, this new approach also reduces wear and tear on Leonard’s body—a crucial factor given his injury history. His high standards of physical care, including strict diet, hydration, and mindfulness practices like yoga and sound baths, underline how dedicated he is to longevity as much as excellence. Leonard’s personal preference for high-quality alkaline water from Austria, which costs a small fortune, exemplifies his meticulous attention to detail—some might see it as eccentric, but teammates like Harden see it as part of his disciplined mindset.
Harden, who recently joined the Clippers, observes that Leonard is often unpredictable yet intensely focused on maximizing every ounce of his effort on the court. Their growing bond is evident from their stellar on-court chemistry, ranking highly among two-man offensive duos in the league.
At the core of Leonard’s regimen are efforts to optimize physical and mental health, so he can sustain his impact in critical moments. His disciplined habits—avoiding sugar, practicing mindfulness, and maintaining precise nutrition—highlight the difference between fleeting talent and sustained greatness. And as Harden remarks, Leonard genuinely loves basketball, working tirelessly to keep himself healthy and competitive.
As Leonard's recent performances have demonstrated—placing him at the top of net rating among players with significant minutes—the question remains: how long can this extraordinary spell last? With a contract that has yet to bear the full fruit of its promise, many wonder whether Leonard’s health and relentless work ethic will ultimately carry the Clippers to the promised land or if injuries and unpredictability will once again intervene. What do you think—in a game that often rewards resilience and discipline, is Leonard truly capable of sustaining this level of greatness, or are these just fleeting moments of brilliance? Share your thoughts below.
