Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard has dismissed claims that he’s lost a step defensively, insisting he remains among the league’s elite on that end of the floor.
When asked about sharing the court with newly acquired forward John Collins, Leonard highlighted how the addition would help the Clippers’ frontcourt depth and defensive matchups. “It’s always great to get an additional body that could guard bigger wings, centers,” Leonard said, as quoted by Law Murray on X.
The two-time NBA Finals MVP then made his own defensive stance clear. “I can still guard. I can still slide with the best of them,” he added, countering recent debates about whether age and injuries have diminished his lateral quickness.
Leonard, 34, remains a central figure in the Clippers’ system under head coach Tyronn Lue. Despite limited availability in recent seasons, his efficiency has stayed steady. In 37 games during the 2024–25 regular season, Leonard averaged 21.5 points on 49.8% shooting, along with 5.9 rebounds and 1.6 steals per game.
Since entering the league in 2011, Leonard has built a reputation as one of the NBA’s most disciplined defenders. His résumé includes two Defensive Player of the Year awards (2015, 2016), five All-Defensive First Team selections, and a Finals MVP performance in 2014 where he held LeBron James below his scoring average.
The Clippers’ offseason addition of Collins from Utah aims to balance their rotation and take some physical toll off Leonard and veteran big man Brook Lopez. Collins, known for his athleticism and rebounding, gives Lue more flexibility in defending opposing forwards and switching schemes.
Still, Leonard’s words suggest he’s not ready to hand over his defensive responsibilities. Over the years, his defensive instincts and strong hands have remained signature traits. His 1.7 career steals per game place him among the top active players in that category.
With Bradley Beal and James Harden anchoring the backcourt, the Clippers’ defensive success will depend heavily on how Leonard manages his health and assignments through the 2025 season.
