Mar 11, 2025; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) and Los Angeles Clippers guard James Harden (1) react during the second half against the New Orleans Pelicans at Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images

James Harden's Sincere Statement on Kawhi Leonard Goes Viral

Originally posted on Los Angeles Clippers on SI
By Farbod Esnaashari | Last updated Apr 23, 2025 6:48 AM ET

Kawhi Leonard hasn't had the easiest career when it comes to dealing with injuries.

Time after time, Leonard has been derailed with major injuries that have caused him to miss the postseason. However, every time he returns from injury, Leonard somehow doesn't miss a beat, reminding everyone just what exactly he's capable of. On Monday night against the Denver Nuggets, that's exactly what Leonard did in a historically efficient shooting performance.

Kawhi Leonard efficient Master class 39 points 78 FG% 5 assists and only missed one shot going to 4th quarter MID RANGE AINT DEAD
pic.twitter.com/QDfTsAkzYT
— Swish Cultures (@swishcultures_) April 22, 2025

After the win, James Harden spoke about how Leonard doesn't receive the appreciation that he deserves.

“Not even a little bit. It’s always negative," Harden said. "It’s always what he’s been through and what he’s not able to do. Just because of something he can’t control. But we don’t appreciate how great he is when he’s actually out there and putting up performances like this tonight… It’s always the negative. It’s always the hate. It’s something we gotta live with I guess in this world. For me being closer to him, and every single day seeing the work he puts in, you appreciate him.”

This article first appeared on Los Angeles Clippers on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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