In the world of professional basketball, few names shine brighter than James Harden and Kawhi Leonard. Known for their exceptional scoring abilities, these two NBA stars usually exude dominance in every game. However, their recent encounter with the resurgent Toronto Raptors was a different story.
In a surprising turn of events, the Raptors emerged victorious in a 115-108 game against the Los Angeles Clippers, with Harden and Leonard appearing merely average against Toronto’s defense. The Raptors’ rookie, Ja’Kobe Walter, suggests that this success against the two NBA greats is a testament to the team’s growing confidence in their defensive play. The win marks the Raptors’ eighth victory in their last ten games.
Walter, who contributed 10 points, four rebounds, and a steal in 21 minutes off the bench, emphasized the importance of focusing on players like Harden and Leonard. He revealed that the team’s strategy involved studying their opponents’ tendencies and finding ways to counter them.
During the game, Harden led the Clippers with 25 points, along with seven assists and five rebounds, while Leonard contributed 14 points, six rebounds, and three assists. However, both players performed below their usual shooting averages, with Harden at 35% and Leonard at 33%.
Leonard, a key player in the Raptors’ 2019 NBA championship, acknowledged the Raptors’ impressive defensive performance and home court advantage as pivotal in their victory. The team’s defensive prowess has played a significant role in their recent successes, with opponents scoring less than 100 points in four of the Raptors’ past 10 games.
With the NBA trade deadline rapidly approaching, it remains to be seen how the Raptors will proceed. Regardless, their recent performances have undoubtedly boosted their confidence, as noted by Walter. The 20-year-old player emphasized the team’s evolving dynamics, particularly their improved defensive communication and the resulting confidence boost.
One of the game’s notable matchups was between sophomore Gradey Dick and Leonard. Despite being known more for his shooting skills, Dick persistently marked Leonard throughout the game. The return of players like Immanuel Quickley and Bruce Brown from injury has further strengthened the Raptors’ defense, aiding their ascent in the Eastern Conference standings.
The Raptors’ recent victories serve as a reminder of the team’s potential, proving that with hard work and dedication, they can stand toe-to-toe with the NBA’s biggest stars. This report was first published by The Canadian Press on February 2, 2025.
