The Los Angeles Clippers have been looking fairly fierce lately and are currently the seventh seed in the Western Conference.
That means they have a good shot at reaching the playoffs, or at least the Play-In, and fans are hoping they can finally deliver on all their promises.
Speaking on “First Take,” Carlos Boozer seemed optimistic about the team’s chances.
He also said that Kawhi Leonard would be the “X-factor” for the Clippers, according to a video shared by Legion Hoops.
His statement received loud and immediate pushback from Stephen A. Smith, who reminded Boozer just how often Leonard is hurt.
Carlos Boozer says Kawhi Leonard can be an X-Factor for the Clippers, per @FirstTake.
Stephen A. Smith: “You can pencil in by week 1 of the playoffs, he gonna be out… Anything's possible with him when it comes to missing games!”
(h/t @ClutchPoints)pic.twitter.com/Ao0MvIUNXh
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) March 25, 2025
Boozer stood by his assertion, saying that “playoff Kawhi” should be feared by other teams in the league.
Sure enough, Leonard has averaged 21.3 points and 7.8 rebounds during his 11 appearances in the playoffs over the years.
If the Clippers can reach the postseason and Leonard can stay healthy, he might be a huge benefit to the team.
But there are many major questions about that happening, because Leonard’s recent history with injuries has been troublesome and Clippers fans are always afraid that another absence is right around the corner.
So far this season, Leonard has averaged 19.9 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 3.0 assists.
He has only played in 28 games, but has appeared more competitive and healthy lately.
The Clippers have gone 8-2 in their last 10 games, and Leonard isn’t the only reason for their success, but he’s certainly a huge part of it.
Now everyone is watching and waiting to see what the Clippers can do.
They are also watching and waiting to see if Leonard can last the rest of the season without an injury.
There is optimism among Clippers fans, but it is cautious.
NEXT: Stephen A. Smith Calls Out Doc Rivers For Recent Playoff Comments