Kawhi Leonard, now playing for the Los Angeles Clippers, made history during his short time with the Toronto Raptors by winning the NBA championship.
Despite leaving soon after, his impact was so big that Brooklyn Nets’ Cam Johnson thinks he deserves a statue. Kawhi’s quiet arrival, winning the championship, and quick departure created a legendary story.
“He really pulled up to Toronto. Didn’t speak, won a chip and dipped. That’s legendary. Legends get statues. To bring a championship to that city in the manner that he did against the powerhouse of the Warriors” – Cam said.
Does Kawhi Leonard deserve a statue in Toronto? 🤔
“He really pulled up to Toronto. Didn’t speak, won a chip and dipped…That’s legendary. Legends get statues.”
– Cam Johnson
(Via: Run Your Race) pic.twitter.com/aJ5wXeZ6c4
— Tidal League (@TidalLeague) November 8, 2023
In the 2018-19 season, things didn’t go as expected. The Golden State Warriors, with Kevin Durant, were favorites to win, but they lost, starting a big change in NBA history. Kawhi played a crucial role in this change.
The Raptors finished second in the Eastern Conference with a 58-24 record. Kawhi’s performance, averaging 26.6 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game, made them top contenders.
They faced challenges in the playoffs, including a memorable buzzer-beater against the Philadelphia 76ers. Despite being down 0-2, they beat the Milwaukee Bucks in six games for the championship.
Looking back, the Raptors handled uncertainties, took advantage of lucky moments, and got the job done in a short time.
Kawhi’s legacy remains a powerful force that brought glory to Toronto’s basketball history.