Kawhi responds to Popovich's leadership comments: 'It's funny to me'
Despite being well-known for his stoic nature, Kawhi Leonard's presence has helped spark the Toronto Raptors to a league-best 17-4 record.
San Antonio Spurs head coach Gregg Popovich understands Leonard's value, having coached the superstar forward for seven seasons before he was dealt north of the border this past summer. But the legendary bench boss suggested leadership wasn't his forte.
Leonard disagreed with Popovich's sentiment.
"It's funny to me, because, I don't know if he's talking about last year or not. I guess when you stop playing, they forget how you lead," Leonard told reporters after the Raptors' 125-115 win over the Miami Heat on Sunday, according to theScore's Joseph Casciaro. "Other than that, it doesn't matter. I'm here with the Raptors and I'm focused on this season, not what's going on the other side."
Leonard seemingly understands he's on the quiet side, but still considers himself a leader, regardless of how his former coach perceives him.
"Lead by example," Leonard said of how he leads a team. "Coming into practice every day, just going hard. Coming into this game just mentally focused."
Leonard sat out all but nine games last season and demanded a trade out of San Antonio.
The two-time Defensive Player of the Year is averaging 24.7 points and 8.5 boards through 15 appearances.