“Everybody is Coming Back”: Newly Extended Kawhi Leonard Fancies His Chances on Paul George and James Harden’s Clippers Loyalty

The Clippers signed another three-year $152.4 million contract extension with Kawhi Leonard on Wednesday. His extension comes in the wake of Kawhi’s player option for the next season. With a guaranteed deal now in place, all that’s left is his co-partner and LA’s star guard, Paul George. But it looks like ‘The Klaw’ has good news on that front too.

He chose to believe in his longtime friend and colleague, as well as their latest addition, James Harden, to stay with the team. According to the latest update by Clippers beat writer, Leonard had reportedly said, “I think for the most part, everybody is coming back, so with me signing the extension, it gives us a chance to sign both players.”

His positive hope stems from the conversations he’s had with the pair of them. Considering everything, we might see the trio in a Clippers jersey going forward as well. According to ESPN’s Ohm Youngmisuk, PG13 had only good things to say about the ongoing extension talks. While not committing to any one answer, Paul said that securing Kawhi was the right move. “Definitely leaves the door open for myself,” he subtly hinted.

The team in itself had a troubling start. They seemed to increase with the Harden trade. But once the “Beard” found his footing among George, Leonard, and Russell Westbrook, they were off like a bullet. More importantly, Kawhi Leonard has had a fulfilling season.

Kawhi Leonard has remained largely healthy

The 2023-24 season has been kind to Kawhi Leonard in that he has stayed healthy for the majority of it. Often having to drop half or entire seasons due to injuries, the list of achievements that should have adorned his wall is absent. But this time, the 2x NBA Finals MVP has had a spectacular run.

Read More: What is a ‘Trade Kicker’ in the NBA? Kawhi Leonard Can Bank Nearly $160+ Million Using the Clause in Latest Contract

Kawhi has played in 33 of the team’s 37 games this season. Averaging 24.0 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 3.5 assists per game, he leads the team in points per game. Another interesting fact is that he has opened in 27 straight games; the most consecutive since the 2016-17 season.

The good news of Kawhi’s extension comes in the wake of their move to their new arena, Intuit Dome, come season. Located in Inglewood, California, the Clippers now have a place to call exclusively theirs. And with their ‘Big 4’ all hailing from Los Angeles, the franchise hopes that they can bring home a championship.

Watch This Story: Kawhi Leonard Disregards Career-Best Stretch for Bigger Picture