Kawhi Leonard is back, and even though he's still rounding into form, his return has been transformative for the Los Angeles Clippers. It's been a small sample size, but early signs indicate the presence of the two-time Finals MVP entrenches the team among the Western Conference elites.

SAN ANTONIO — Kawhi Leonard stood in his usual spot during starting lineup introductions with the LA Clippers on the road. The San Antonio Spurs’ public address announcer rattled off the names of the Clippers’ starters and got to Leonard last:

Like in his past returns to San Antonio, the 33-year-old Leonard was booed by Spurs fans during the player introductions. The two-way star had an acrimonious exit from the Spurs in 2018 after requesting to be traded. He was shipped to the Toronto Spurs, which he led to their first and only championship in 2019.

To see uptick in playing time

Los Angeles Clippers star Kawhi Leonard understands that there isn't much love remaining for him within the San Antonio Spurs fanbase. When asked about