Tyronn Lue highlighted Kawhi Leonard’s impact after the Los Angeles Clippers defeated the Sacramento Kings 114-111 on Friday night at Golden 1 Center. Leonard scored 31 points with nine rebounds and seven assists, helping Los Angeles end a two-game skid.
“He had it going and then to hit KD [Kris Dunn] for a big three and then hit DJ [Derrick Jones Jr.] in the corner for a four-point play. That was huge, you know,” Lue said, pointing to Leonard’s aggression in the third quarter that helped the team pull away.
The coach acknowledged a sluggish start in the first half. “Just the way it goes and, you know, like I said, getting close to all-star break, you know, played 50 games and so just, you know, just battling through,” he said. The Clippers trailed 49-48 at halftime before taking control midway through the fourth quarter.
Lue praised Leonard’s playmaking under defensive pressure. “I thought it was good. You know, our guys got to their spots… just executing. Like I said, he threw the ball to KD for a big three and DJ had a four-point play was huge. Just trusting the pass,” he said. Leonard had to navigate frequent doubles and maintained composure while creating opportunities for teammates.
The head coach also reflected on John Collins’ growth since joining the team. “Just get more comfortable. You know, not playing like thinking on offense or thinking on defense and just kind of playing free now that he understands what we want to do offensively and defensively,” Lue said. Collins finished with 22 points on 8-of-12 shooting.
Addressing the Clippers’ trade activity, Lue expressed optimism about roster integration. “Just kind of see how teams, you know, play them. We’re prepared for however they play them with our spacing and how we need to play,” he said regarding recent additions Darius Garland, Bennedict Mathurin and Isaiah Jackson.
The coach emphasized maintaining team focus despite roster movement. “Yeah, just, you know, just win the game… first half we looked a little slow and lethargic. We got better as the game went on, but, you know, just got to keep, you know, battling, staying afloat, like I said, until we get our guys. And so, tonight, no matter who they played or how they played, it was a big win for us,” Lue said.
Lue also noted Leonard’s accelerated style of play. “When he goes quicker when teams are, you know, double teaming him… that’s how he’s able to capitalize. Is this the most comfortable you’ve seen him with that? Yes, sir,” he said. The veteran forward has adapted to a faster, more dynamic offensive approach, leveraging athletic teammates and spacing to maximize efficiency.
