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For Kawhi Leonard, this past season with the Los Angeles Clippers was his best in terms of games played, totaling 68. It was also his most productive season since 2017, when he was still with the San Antonio Spurs and finished third in MVP voting behind his now-teammates Russell Westbrook and James Harden. Despite his great performance this season, averaging 23.7 points per game, 6.1 rebounds , and earning a spot on the All-NBA Second Team, the Clippers fell short once again, losing in the first round of the playoffs for the second consecutive year, even with a "super team" filled with veteran talent.
Off the court, Leonard was spotted at the "The Pop Out: Ken and Friends" concert by Kendrick Lamar, attended by several NBA stars including his teammates James Harden and Russell Westbrook, as well as LeBron James and DeMar DeRozan. While many celebrities took the stage during the event whit the song "they not like us", it was Leonard's unexpected behavior that caught the attention of many.
He was seen discreetly smoking what appeared to be a joint, captured on camera by an audience member who posted the video on social media. Although it wasn't clear what he was smoking, Leonard's low-key manner suggested it wasn't a vape or cigarette. However, this incident won't cause any issues for Leonard as the NBA and the players' association have allowed the use of marijuana since 2022, meaning players are no longer tested or fined for it.
Leonard is currently enjoying the off-season before potentially joining Team USA for the Olympics. While there is no official confirmation regarding his recovery from the injury he sustained against Dallas, Leonard doesn't have much time left. He and the other selected players need to report to the training camp early next month. If he wants to represent the country in the Olympics, he'll need to be ready soon; otherwise, he may be replaced. Should Leonard not make it to the Olympics, his next appearance on the court would be in the Clippers' new arena, "The Intuit Dome," set to open next season.