The latest showdown between the Los Angeles Lakers and the LA Clippers was nothing short of a classic, as these two teams delivered another nail-biter. LeBron James was there to seal the deal for the Lakers, but the Clippers faced a setback when Kawhi Leonard had to exit late due to an ankle injury.
LeBron wrapped up the night with 13 points, three rebounds, and 11 assists, shooting 5-of-13 from the field, helping the Lakers edge past the Clippers 125-122. Kawhi, before his early departure, was on fire with 31 points, four rebounds, and five assists, hitting 11-of-19 shots in just 31 minutes.
After the game, LeBron didn't hold back his admiration for Kawhi's tenacity and skill, especially considering Kawhi's history with injuries. "Kawhi is awesome, man," LeBron said.
"He’s one of the best players ever. Injuries are out of your control.
What he controls is his comeback and his relentless perseverance every single time."
LeBron James was incredibly complimentary of Kawhi Leonard when I asked him about the resilience he’s seen from him:
— Tomer Azarly (@TomerAzarly) February 21, 2026
“Kawhi is awesome, man. He’s the best. He’s one of the best players ever. I couldn’t care less about the injuries… That guy is awesome. I swear I have nothing… pic.twitter.com/GipDxoJRfX
Kawhi's numbers this season speak volumes. In 42 games, he's averaging 27.8 points, 6.4 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 2.0 steals per game.
He's shooting an impressive 49 percent from the field, 37.8 percent from beyond the arc, and 90.7 percent from the charity stripe. This stellar play has been crucial in lifting the Clippers from their early-season slump.
LeBron continued to praise Kawhi, saying, “That guy is awesome. I have nothing but great things to say about the basketball he’s been playing.
I was disappointed he couldn't join us for the 2024 Olympics due to injury. I was looking forward to teaming up with him.
He had 31 points in 12 minutes the other night. He’s just phenomenal.”
Kawhi's career has been marred by injuries, including a torn ACL and meniscus, along with persistent quad and knee issues. Yet, his resilience keeps him performing at an elite level.
LeBron and Kawhi have faced off in 40 encounters-28 in the regular season and 12 in the playoffs. Kawhi has the edge in their regular-season matchups, winning 15 out of 28 games, and in the playoffs, he's taken seven out of 12.
Their rivalry has seen epic battles, including the 2013 NBA Finals where LeBron's Miami Heat triumphed over Kawhi's Spurs, only for Kawhi to return the favor in 2014, leading the Spurs to victory. This matchup continues to be one of the most compelling in the NBA.