Kendrick Perkins Advises Kawhi Leonard, Suggesting Retirement After Latest Bout of Knee Troubles
Former NBA player and current analyst Kendrick Perkins has weighed in on the latest injury setback for Kawhi Leonard, suggesting that the Los Angeles Clippers star should consider retirement after a recent knee procedure. Perkins expressed his concern on ESPN’s “First Take” about Leonard’s ongoing struggles with injuries, which have plagued him throughout his career.
“I just feel like, at this point, maybe Kawhi should hang it up,” Perkins said. “He’s been dealing with this knee for a while now. It’s just been one thing after another. We know he’s a great player, but we haven’t seen him consistently at the level we expect him to play.”
Perkins’ comments follow news of Leonard undergoing a procedure on his right knee, stemming from an injury sustained in the playoffs. While Leonard’s recovery timeline remains uncertain, the latest setback has added fuel to speculation regarding his future in the NBA.
The two-time NBA champion and Finals MVP has been known for his dominant play on the court, but also for his frequent bouts with injury. In 2017, Leonard was sidelined for much of the season with a quadriceps injury while playing for the San Antonio Spurs, eventually being traded to the Toronto Raptors in 2018.
In Toronto, Leonard went on to lead the Raptors to their first-ever NBA title, winning Finals MVP in the process. He then joined the Clippers in 2019, but has only appeared in 165 of a possible 302 games due to injuries.
“He’s 32 years old, and this isn’t getting any easier for him,” Perkins continued. “He’s one of the best in the game, but the reality is he might just need to walk away from this before he can’t even play the game anymore.”
Perkins’ advice sparked a heated debate amongst fellow analysts and fans alike, with many taking to social media to voice their opinions on Leonard’s potential retirement.
While some agreed with Perkins’ assessment, pointing to the recurring nature of Leonard’s injuries, others were more optimistic about his return to the court.
Leonard’s ability to play at an elite level when healthy is undeniable, but the increasing frequency and severity of his injuries raise questions about whether he can maintain the physical demands of an NBA career.
For Leonard, the decision will ultimately come down to a personal one. Whether he decides to retire, try to overcome his current injury woes, or pursue other opportunities remains to be seen.
Perkins’ comments highlight the harsh reality of the NBA for many athletes. The league’s physical nature can often take its toll, leading to premature retirement for some of the game’s most talented stars.
As Leonard recovers from his latest knee procedure, the basketball world eagerly awaits news regarding his next move and whether the Clippers star will be able to regain his dominant form.
