Kawhi Leonard has a lot going on in his life right now, but he is still expected to lead the Los Angeles Clippers (26-28) through this period of transition. James Harden and Ivica Zubac were moved at the trade deadline, leading the franchise into a new era. However, the two-time NBA Finals MVP is still the center of this team. He has been tasked with anchoring the Clipse, as Chris Paul did several years ago.
Although the two future Hall of Famers haven't shared a locker room for long, they both understand what it's like to be the top guy on the Los Angeles Lakers' "little brother." Bringing pride and prestige to a historically troubled franchise may be a difficult task. The Clippers are still looking for their first Finals appearance, but both of these guys have done their best to keep the team respectable. There is a certain bond that is created by sharing equal responsibilities.
Amid significant roster changes, Leonard is trying to be the stabilizing force that Paul was in a previous era of Clippers basketball. Now he has even more appreciation for the newly retired point guard. The three-time All-NBA first-team selection and two-time Defensive Player of the Year spoke about the impact Paul had on him and the entire game.
"He's always been great," Leonard told veteran NBA insider Chris Haynes before All-Star Weekend. "A leader, a guy who also cares about his family, gives you advice on and off the field. He used to be one of my favorite players, I watched him a lot growing up. Observed his leadership and how dedicated he was to trying to win basketball games, his handle, his IQ. So, hats off to him. He did that for many years, especially at a guard position – you don't see that too much.
"I think you'll see the things he's done. Congratulations to him on his career."
Met up with Clippers star Kawhi Leonard in LA ahead of the All-Star Game on Sunday. Many topics were discussed, including whether people would work hard. pic.twitter.com/ppgZi4L5uU
- Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) 14 February 2026
Chris Paul didn't get the farewell Clippers fans wanted
Paul planned to end his illustrious NBA run with a second stint in L.A., but it became clear early in the 2025-26 campaign that he wasn't fitting in with this iteration of the Clippers. The two sides parted ways in December, and then the organization began an official split when it traded the four-time All-NBA first-teamer to the Toronto Raptors last week. He was waived on Friday and immediately announced his retirement, closing the book on a 21-year NBA career.
Although Paul's final chapter was very frustrating and full of tension, Leonard is happy to call him a teammate, even if briefly. The 34-year-old forward Chris Paul will try to finish what he started in Los Angeles and lead the Clippers back into title contention.
Despite being ranked 10th in the West, LA has performed at a high level over the past two months. Fans hope that No. 2 can keep the team relevant, just as No. 3 did before him.
