In the road win in Memphis that delivered a valuable victory in the standings for the Los Angeles Clippers, the imprint of their leader Kawhi Leonard was once again unmistakable. For Tyronn Lue’s team, a shocking first quarter – ending 41-23 in favor of the Grizzlies – served as a cold shower before the comeback that followed shortly after. In the tight closing stretch, the difference in motivation between the two teams did the rest.

That the Kawhi Leonard of this season is a man on a mission has been clear for months. His consistent production in back-to-backs, especially considering his injury history and the physical challenges of recent years, has impressed everyone.

In the postgame, the former Spurs star described the connection he manages to maintain with the court night after night, a key element behind a season whose numbers resemble those of his prime.

I’m having fun. I pray to God every day that I’m able to play basketball, and I have to make the most of these opportunities and blessings, which I’m grateful for

Kawhi Leonard

The arrival of Darius Garland is viewed by Leonard with great confidence, though his words carry no sense of unnecessary pressure.

We have a lot to learn from each other

Kawhi Leonard

For the Clippers, a spot among the top ten teams in the Western Conference is now safe from any late pushes by chasing teams. Climbing further in the standings is now the main goal for the final stretch of the season, with the hope of possibly securing a double match-point in the Play-In Tournament.