Patrick Beverley dissects difference between LeBron James and injury-prone Kawhi Leonard's relentless work ethics
LA Clippers superstar forward Kawhi Leonard's reputation has taken a hit over the past few years as he continues to be plagued by injuries. However, according to Leonard's former teammate, Patrick Beverley, the two-time NBA champion is the league's hardest-working player, edging out LA Lakers superstar forward LeBron James.
Upon teaming up with star wing Paul George on the Clippers in 2019, Leonard was expected to lead the franchise to unprecedented heights. Instead, the six-time All-Star has been hindered by injuries throughout his LA tenure.
Leonard has played fewer than 60 games in three of the four seasons he's suited up for the organization. He also missed the entire 2021-22 season due to a torn right ACL, later suffering a torn meniscus in the same knee last year.
This past season, Leonard played 68 contests, his most as a Clipper. However, he only appeared in two of his squad's six playoff games due to right knee inflammation. Concerns around Leonard's health further escalated when he withdrew from Team USA's 12-man roster ahead of the 2024 Paris Olympics last month.
Nevertheless, according to Beverley, Leonard has maintained an elite work ethic throughout his injury misfortune. On "The OGs" show on Tuesday, Beverley, who played two seasons alongside Leonard (2019 to 2021), raved about his ex-teammate's dedication. He added that Leonard slightly outworks James, whom he also played half a season with (2022-23 season).
According to Beverley, Leonard separates himself more "on the court," while LeBron has the edge "in the weight room."
"Kawhi. Hardest working motherf**ker I've seen in my life," Beverley said. "When I say hard-working, I mean, in the weight room, it's LeBron. On the court, it's Kawhi. Together, weight room and court, Kawhi. I ain't seen nobody like him."
Beverley added that Leonard's extreme commitment to perfecting his craft is likely why he gets injured so frequently.
"That's what people don't understand. That's why the motherf**ker [gets] hurt," Beverley said. "Like, 'Hey, man, you gotta relax.'"
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Despite injury concerns, Kawhi Leonard expected to be ready for training camp
After Kawhi Leonard withdrew from Team USA, the squad's managing director, Grant Hill, provided an update on his status. He noted that Leonard worked diligently to prepare for his first Olympics but couldn't do so in time.
"I think he wanted to be here," Hill said. "... Personally speaking, I know what it's like to want to do something and your body's just not right. And I've lived that personally, and so, I applaud him for coming here and [being] willing to sacrifice, give up his summer and represent our country and play for our program, and ultimately, it didn't work out."
However, Clippers president Lawrence Frank said that despite Team USA encouraging Leonard to withdraw, he thought he looked "great" in practices. He added that the superstar forward is expected to be ready for next season's training camp.
Between Leonard's extensive injury history and Paul George's free agency departure to the Philadelphia 76ers, LA faces uncertainty entering the 2024-25 campaign. However, if Leonard can finally stay healthy for a full season and playoff run, perhaps the Clippers can remain competitive in the crowded Western Conference.
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