"The league stinks right now" - Kawhi Leonard boldly claims he can solve NBA's ratings problem upon return from injury
Former NBA player Patrick Beverley revealed his recent exchange with former teammate Kawhi Leonard on a new episode of the "Pat Bev Pod" Friday. Beverley said he spoke to Leonard, who reportedly believes he can solve the league's declining viewership numbers when he returns.
In early November, Front Office Sports reported the 2024–25 NBA season had seen a steady drop in ratings.
"NBA viewership continues to decline, and the league has yet to find the next star capable of drawing numbers similar to Steph Curry, LeBron James, and Kevin Durant, per FOS."
In Beverley's conversation with Leonard, the two-time Finals MVP reportedly said ratings could increase with his return. Bevereley first gave an update on the LA Clippers star, who's dealing with a right knee injury recovery.
"They [the Clippers] got a complete package. They’re going to be scary in the playoffs,” Beverley said. “I talked to Kawhi on the phone yesterday, he’s healing up like a f*****g machine."
After his update, Beverley revealed his conversation with the two-way star.
"'The league stinks right now, views are low.' 'I agree,' [I replied.] He [said], 'They are waiting on the Klaw.'"
"Views are low, they’re missing Kawhi. I love [it] and then I hit him with 'They know I’m the isolation kings over here [in Israel].' [He replied] 'Yeah, I was the iso king in the best league in the world for three years in a row.'"
Without Leonard, the Clippers have still managed to go 12-8 thanks to the brilliance of James Harden and Norman Powell. Harden is averaging 21.6 points, 7.2 rebounds and 8.7 assists. Powell is averaging 20 points per game for the first time in his career.
Through 15 games this season, Powell has averaged 23.3 points on 49% shooting from the field. The team still awaits Leonard's season debut but the Clippers have yet to give an update on a timetable for his return.
Also read: "You don't need that many stars to win" - Kawhi Leonard offers optimistic view on Paul George's departure
Leonard is listed out against the Timberwolves
The Clippers are set to play against the Minnesota Timberwolves Friday in the group stage of the Emirates NBA Cup. Leonard remains out for this contest, while Powell has been listed as questionable. Veteran forward PJ Tucker is also out and is expected to be out of action until Dec. 19. The 6-foot-3 scorer has missed the last five games due to a hamstring issue.