Watch: Kawhi Leonard’s ice-cold game-winner on return against Charlotte Hornets after long injury layoff
Kawhi Leonard made his return to the LA Clippers lineup on Monday night to go against the Charlotte Hornets.
The Clippers beat the Hornets 119-117, thanks to Leonard's game-winning 3-point shot. As the commentators mentioned, 'The Klaw' struggled to find his stroke offensively all game. However, his clutch gene came out as he hit the dagger.
Leonard had the ball in his hands in the final five seconds of the game. With the clock winding down, he had to make a play. He was defended by Jaden McDaniels when the Clippers star decided to hit a step-back jumper on the young player. Leonard successfully hit the shot, giving his team a two-point lead with 1.4 seconds remaining as LA dethroned Charlotte in their hometown.
Here's the video of his game winner:
KAWHI LEONARD GETS THE GAME WINNER‼️ https://t.co/yhinprn2HW
Kawhi Leonard stars for LA Clippers despite struggling all game
Kawhi Leonard was out of action for six games due to injury management. The last time he played was on November 22 when the LA Clippers took on the Utah Jazz. Leonard struggled to get his offense going, as he only scored eight points in 23 minutes of play. On his return against the Charlotte Hornets, it seemed like he was going to have another underwhelming performance.
He ended up with 16 points, six rebounds and two assists in 28 minutes. It was another disappointing performance from the Clippers star, but he managed to redeem himself in the final quarter.
Leonard made only one shot in the first quarter. It was the same story in the second, but this time he added two free throws. Then came the start of the third when he managed only one basket. Fortunately, 'The Klaw' came alive in the fourth quarter to lead his team to victory. He led the Clippers with eight points, including his game-winning shot, to seal the deal.
It was a slow start for Leonard, but he made up for his shortcomings. There's a lot of catching up to do if he intends to become an efficient team player. 'The Klaw' isn't in his All-Star form, as he's only averaging 11 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 3.2 assists and is a disappointing 11.1% shooting from behind the arc.
To be fair, he has only played six games this season, so he's likely rusty. However, Leonard should do something about his load management, as he has been doing it for a long time now. Fans who pay for tickets to see him play rarely get to see him in action.