Kawhi Leonard Makes Draymond Green Admission After Clippers Loss

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Apr 16, 2026 1:58 AM ET

Los Angeles Clippers star Kawhi Leonard had 19 points heading into the fourth quarter of Wednesday’s do-or-die play-in game against the Golden State Warriors. The Clippers were up 89-83 after three periods as they found themselves in the driver’s seat at home.

Unfortunately for L.A., the Warriors turned in a vintage performance in the final frame. Steph Curry (35 points, seven threes) and Al Horford (14 points, four triples) turned back the clock to lead Golden State to an inspiring comeback victory.

The Warriors outscored the Clippers in the fourth by 11 points, resulting in a 126-121 victory for Golden State.

Leonard, in particular, struggled mightily in the fourth quarter. This was thanks in large part to Draymond Green’s heroics on the defensive end.

USA: Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) controls the ball against Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green (23).© Kelley L Cox-Imagn Images

Leonard was limited to just two points in the final frame on 1-of-2 shooting. He also committed two crucial turnovers down the stretch.

It was a defensive masterclass from Green that shut Leonard down in the fourth. The Warriors star is a former Defensive Player of the Year and a nine-time All-Defense forward. On Wednesday night, he proved exactly why this is the case with his relentless defense on Leonard.

Leonard gave Green his flowers after the game. The Clippers star admitted that he could barely attempt a shot against Green.

“They had a great game plan,” Leonard said, via Clippers reporter Joey Linn. “… Draymond, Hall of Fame defender. It was hard to even get shots up.”

It’s the end of the line for the Clippers as their season officially comes to an end. Leonard is entering a very intriguing offseason ahead as he faces questions about his future in L.A.

Green and the Warriors, on the other hand, live to fight another day. They will face the Phoenix Suns on Friday to determine the No. 8 seed in the Western Conference.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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