“They’re Going to War”: Hours After the Kawhi Leonard-Chris Paul Viral Is Debunked, a Former NBA Champion Tears In With His Sharp Analysis

The NBA playoffs have taken the sports world by storm with a number of heated moments already making headlines. One of the most controversial moments happened after game 2 between the Phoenix Suns and the Los Angeles Clippers. Following the Suns’ win, Chris Paul and Kawhi Leonard bumped into each other which many perceived to be out of animosity. However, there are more sides to the story.

Recently, 2017 NBA champion Matt Barnes joined The Rich Eisen Show and gave his insights into the incident. Unlike the majority of the NBA world, he asserted that he ‘liked’ the moment between CP3 and the Klaw. Moreover, Barnes also bashed the people making a huge fuss out of the incident.

A Former NBA champion deciphers the viral incident

The NBA playoffs have delivered some of the most iconic matchups and duels in league history. Recently, fans witnessed a heated exchange between Kawhi Leonard and Chris Paul. Although it seemed like there is some tension between the two NBA stars, the reality is quite different.

Sources who witnessed them up close have confirmed that it was an accidental bump. Moreover, they had acknowledged each other just prior to this moment. With this incident going viral across all social media platforms, former Golden State Warriors star Matt Barnes chimed into the debate. 

When asked about his thoughts, he started by acknowledging that he ‘liked it’. Moreover, he also bashed the current generation of athletes for being too amicable which each other while comparing the incredibly physical 80s and 90s.

He said, “I think that everyone is so buddy, buddy now that when people are about their business like both of those men are, it’s a big deal. Like nothing bumpy. But they don’t have to say hi. They don’t have to acknowledge each other like they’re going to war right now and may the best team win.”

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Moreover, Barnes also talked briefly about the Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook incident. The two former teammates got chippy during the game which once again incited fans to talk about a potential beef. However, they were seen greeting each other after the game which put all the allegations to rest.

Chris Paul and Devin Booker dominate to beat the Clippers

The first-round matchup between the Clippers and the Suns is already turning out to be a classic. Thanks to some heroic efforts from Russell Westbrook and Kawhi Leonard, the Clippers ran away with game 1.

Devin Booker scored 38 points and 9 assists to help his team clinch game 2. Chris Paul also played his part as The Point God recorded 16 points, 8 assists, and 4 rebounds for the game. From the Clippers, Leonard scored 31 points but his efforts were not enough to take his team over the line.

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What are your predictions for game 3 between the Suns and the Clippers? Let us know in the comments down below.