Apr 19, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; LA Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) warms up before the game against the Denver Nuggets at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Controversial Ex-Miami Heat Player Shows Love For Kawhi Leonard Revival

Originally posted on Miami Heat on SI
By Shandel Richardson | Last updated Apr 22, 2025 9:46 AM ET

Miami Heat fans know all about the dominance of Kawhi Leonard.

It was 11 years ago when Leonard led the San Antonio Spurs past the Heat in the 2014 NBA Finals. A decade later, he is still playing like an NBA superstar. He had 39 points, five assists and three rebounds Monday to lead the Los Angeles Clippers past the Denver Nuggets in Game 2 of their first-round series. The series is tied at 1.

The performance caught the attention of former Heat guard Dion Waiters.

Here's what he posted on X, formerly Twitter: "Kawhi Leonard is reminding everybody when he’s healthy he’s a top 5 player in the league!!!!! He got game."

Kawhi Leonard is reminding everybody when he’s healthy he’s a top 5 player in the league!!!!! He got game.
— Philly Cheese (@dionwaiters3) April 22, 2025

Waiters is known for a mostly turbulent career with the Heat. His four years in Miami were filled mostly with inconsistency and issues. He was suspended multiple times during his final season, most notably for overdosing on edibles during a team flight.

Waiters was later traded along with former lottery pick Justise Winslow to the Memphis Grizzlies. Waiters last played in the 2019-20 season with the Lakers. He has hinted about returning to the league. A former lottery pick by the Cleveland Cavaliers, he is only 33.

Many have compared Waiters to former Heat draft pick Michael Beasley, who was chosen No. 2 behind Derrick Rose inn 2008. Both had endless potential and talent but could never overcome personal issues.

This article first appeared on Miami Heat on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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