The relationship between Kawhi Leonard and his former coach on the San Antonio Spurs Gregg Popovich certainly went downhill towards the end of Leonard’s tenure with the team. The quiet forward was probably more in the spotlight than he would have liked, not to mention that injuries were also keeping him out of the lineup.
Overall, the two still have respect for each other. Despite that, Popovich wasn’t afraid to speak his mind on a particular shortcoming of Kawhi’s.
In response to what could be perceived as shade from a former coach/player duo, Kawhi’s current coach touched on his new star’s leadership qualities, believing they shine through in other ways.
One things for sure, Kawhi Leonard is valuable on a team no matter what, and he seems to be enjoying his new team. We’ll see how far he can take the Raptors as the NBA season continues to unfold.