Former Teammate Defends Kawhi Leonard Amid Recent Controversy, Highlights Star's Work Ethic

Los Angeles Clippers star Kawhi Leonard is currently facing allegations of involvement in practices to circumvent the salary cap. Among the many comments made about Leonard during this period, several pointed out the star's desire to take time off from the game. 

In light of this statement, former Clippers player Patrick Beverley came to Leonard's defense, highlighting the forward's work ethic. While speaking on the "Pat Bev Podcast With Rone", he said:

"When it comes to working out on the basketball court, I have never seen anyone that's even close to Kawhi Leonard when it comes to working on your skills. In my mind, that's probably why it's hard for him to be healthy, too, because he works so extremely hard. So yeah, he's different. He is a real machine."

Beverley recounted his experience of working out with Leonard, adding that while he considered himself to be a hardworking player, he was outdone by the Clippers' forward. While breaking down Leonard's daily routine, Beverly highlighted how extreme the workout was in comparison to general training.

The former Clippers player makes an intriguing point. Given Leonard's performance when he is available on the court, it is difficult to dispute the efficacy of his training. Still, suggesting that Leonard's intense training might lead to injuries does raise some eyebrows.

Regardless, Beverley's comments may do well in defending Leonard's work ethic. When factoring in recent claims about his desire to play in back-to-back games, along with his decision to simulate an extended postseason as preparation for the next campaign, the star finds himself in good standing.

Even at 34 years old, Leonard is the best player on the Clippers' roster and their most valuable asset. As a two-time NBA champion, he also possesses the necessary experience to lead the team to the promised land.

Last season, he averaged 21.5 points and 5.9 rebounds, while shooting 49.8% overall and 41.1% from three-point range during the regular season. In the playoffs, he saw a significant uptick in scoring, as he averaged 25.0 points and 7.6 rebounds, while shooting 53.7% from the field and 40.5% from beyond the arc.

Even in a limited capacity last season, primarily due to injury, he was one of L.A.'s most productive players during the regular season, and certainly their best player during the playoffs.

However, off-court issues linger, as Beverley's comments do little to ease concerns associated with Leonard signing a $28 million endorsement deal with Aspiration, a company allegedly backed by Steve Ballmer. In this regard, revelations of the forward's involvement in previous such deals don't support his case.

If the NBA determines that the deal was a blatant effort on behalf of the owner and the player to skirt the salary cap, the league could impose heavy penalties on the parties involved. Should this come to pass, the Clippers may face some serious challenges heading into the 2025-26 season.