“It’s Great to be Able to Pick their Brain”: Kawhi Leonard Relishes Playing Alongside LeBron James & Anthony Davis

LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Kawhi Leonard played in the same team on Sunday in the 2020 NBA All-Star game. Something that, during the trade season prior to the start of the season, seemed a real possibility. It was when the Los Angeles Lakers were reported to be close to signing Leonard from the Raptors. However, he chose to join the Los Angeles Clippers.

While the three might not have become permanent teammates, Leonard enjoyed his time with the other two in the one-off game.

“It was fun,” Leonard said of playing with James and Davis. “I played with Bron and A.D. last year, and I think the year before that or so. But it’s always fun just to get around guys that are very competitive, see what they do on an everyday basis. Just talking, just being their teammate. We go at each other all year round, and like I said, it’s great to be able to pick their brain and just be around them and joke and laugh.”

Kawhi Leonard became the first Kobe Bryant MVP

Playing alongside James and Davis, Leonard managed to outscore them with 30 points. His performance won him the Kobe Bryant MVP award. It was announced prior to the game that the All-Star MVP award would be permanently named after Bryant in his honour. On Suday, Leonard became the first-ever recipient of the award.

“It means a lot to me,” Leonard said on winning the Kobe Bryant MVP award. “Words can’t even explain. Just making this the first Kobe Bryant MVP trophy, I wanna thank Kobe for everything he done for me. All the long talks and workouts. Thank you. This one’s for him.”