Kawhi Leonard Opens Up About Kevin Durant Matchup in Clippers vs. Suns

LA Clippers star Kawhi Leonard has respect for Phoenix Suns star Kevin Durant

With injuries interrupting the last two postseason matchups between Kevin Durant and Kawhi Leonard, the two are set to face off again in the first round of the playoffs. With Leonard going down in the 2017 series between Golden State and San Antonio, and then Durant going down in the 2019 Finals between Golden State and Toronto, the two superstar forwards have been unable to compete for an entire playoff series since 2016.

Ahead of this first round matchup with Durant, Leonard was asked about facing the Suns star, saying, "He's a great player. These are the fun parts of it, just going out there and competing against a guy like him that's been doing it year after year. Everybody's gonna have to take the challenge."

Leonard also noted Durant's proficiency in the midrange, saying, "Him making shots. That's what it's about. How he gets to his spots. Shooting over guys… Throughout his whole career. It's very impressive. Year after year he's doing it, and he's doing it at a high percentage."

This will be a tough series for the Clippers with Paul George sidelined, but Kawhi Leonard has been playing at a superstar level for months now, and could give them a real opportunity to make this a series. Ready for the Durant matchup, Leonard is excited to compete against one of the game's best players.

Related Articles

Paul George Gives Injury Update Before Playoffs

Russell Westbrook Reacts to Facing Kevin Durant in Playoffs

Russell Westbrook Reacts to Lakers Coach's Comments on Him