Somewhat surprisingly, Spurs coach Gregg Popovich had criticized Kawhi Leonard at the weekend and said that he was “no leader”. The superstar of the Raptors commented on this on Sunday.
“I’ve heard of it. I think it’s funny. I don’t know if he’s talking about last year or not, but I guess when you stop playing, they forget how to lead,” Leonard said. “Apart from that, it doesn’t matter. I’m here with the Raptors. I’m concentrating on this season and not on what’s happening elsewhere.”
Leonard was traded from the Spurs to Toronto this summer, as is well known, after having barely played last season and staying away from the team for long periods. Popovich was asked about leadership at Spurs on Saturday and said that of course they missed the talent of the 2014 final MVP, but he never appeared as a leader.
“I lead by setting a good example in training every day,” Leonard said. “I approach every game with great concentration. Whenever I notice something or someone asks me about a particular matchup, I tell the guys what to do and where to go and motivate them. I just want to encourage her. I don’t want anyone to feel too bad on this court.”
Leonard spent the first seven years of his career in San Antonio before demanding a trade in the summer. On 3 January, he will be making his first guest appearance with his new team at the Spurs.