Clippers’ Kawhi Leonard might be an introverted and reserved personality off the court, but he is a beast on it. The Claw is capable of forcing a turnaround in clutch moments whatever be the deficit. So losing him can be a heavy loss for any franchise, given there are not many options that can serve better at his position.

Now, the Clippers are facing one tricky situation where they know how Kawhi can decline his player option. With that in mind and the recent draft swaps in perception, the team’s executive in Lawrence Frank has some major updates on LA’s stance on their best player.

Will the Clippers hold on to Kawhi Leonard until he gets well?

In a recent interview, LA Clippers’ president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank spilled some beans around the team’s roster ambitions. He first discussed Kawhi and revealed their “hope to have, in Kawhi’s case, a very long-term relationship with him.”

The 50-YO then added to that comment and further ensured that they’re covering the back of The Claw. He exclaimed, “I know that he has a process, and right now our focus, like Kawhi, like his is, is on his health. He had major surgery. [He] tore his ACL. That’s going to require a great deal of time and we want to support him in that.”

These are some really positive signals that prove Kawhi is there to stay in his hometown for at least one more season. 

Read more – ‘Wanna Run It Back’: Chris Bosh Explains Why Kawhi Leonard Should Return to the LA Clippers

Why is The Claw so important to the Clips Nation?

The Clippers recently acquired Jason Preston at #33 in their draft pick by giving away a futures round 2 pick, a 2026 Pistons second round, and $1.5 million cash to the Magic. Preston is coming off a 15.7/7.3/7.3 season, and he is sure to help the team with offense. Apart from him, they also hold keys to the youthful and energetic Keon Johnson who can become a beast at going downhill and smashing buckets.

However, the Clips have already seen Serge Ibaka (back) and Ivica Zubac (Knee) skipping important games last season. So they won’t risk the next season on draft picks and would rather want an experienced core. This is where Kawhi Leonard and his camaraderie with Paul George becomes important. 

Moreover, if they want dedicated UFA’s like Reggie Jackson & Nicolas Batum to stay in LA, they’ll have to assure that a healthy Kawhi can take him deeper in the postseason. So what do you think, can the Clippers hold on to their winning combination that helped them reach their first WCF? Help us know in the comments section below.

Watch this story – LA Clippers’ Kawhi Leonard/Paul George and Other Top NBA Duos