Kawhi Leonard was itching to play more in Raptors return but has no timeline on reaching midseason form: 'You can't rush greatness'
Leonard asked head coach Darko Rajaković to let him back into the game in the fourth quarter of a season-opening blowout win over the Chicago Bulls.
Kawhi Leonard's return to the Toronto Raptors after a trade delay has left him eager to play more, but he has no timeline for regaining midseason form. The 35-year-old, a two-time NBA Finals MVP, was antsy for more game reps during the preseason, even asking to return for the season-opening blowout against the Chicago Bulls. After scoring 23 points on 5-of-17 shooting in the 135-92 victory, Leonard admitted he isn't setting a specific date for returning to midseason form.
"You can't rush greatness," he said postgame, when pressed about his target return time. He finished the game with 24 points, 6 rebounds, 4 steals, 2 assists, and 1 block. Raptors head coach Darko Rajaković noted that Leonard requested more minutes in the fourth quarter to get his legs under him. The team also got 20-plus points from RJ Barrett, Scottie Barnes, and Immanuel Quickley.
Leonard's return was marked by a fan giveaway T-shirt featuring his signature "The Klaw" nickname. He emphasized connecting with fans and building a mentor role in the team.
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