Kawhi Leonard Latest News & Update: Is Ex-Spurs Superstar Worried About Facing the Golden State Warriors?

Kawhi Leonard and the Toronto Raptors are now 18-4 after defeating the Memphis Grizzlies in a grueling matchup. The team’s tenacity was highlighted during the game as they trailed off behind the Grizzlies for most of the match.

In the fourth quarter, however, the Raptors overtook the Grizzlies with Kawhi Leonard draining a three-point shot in the last minute. The next opponent of the Canadian team will be the NBA’s reigning champion, the Golden State Warriors.

However, the Warriors will not be employing their full firepower as Stephen Curry will not be playing for the much-anticipated matchup. The guard has missed the last 10 games of the Warriors after suffering a strained left groin during their game with the Milwaukee Bucks. As such, Kevin Durant is expected to lead the team with Klay Thompson providing additional reinforcements. Kawhi Leonard and the rest of the Raptors will certainly be tested during this matchup even though the Warriors aren’t going to be in their true form.

Aside from Stephen Curry, Draymond Green is reportedly likely going to sit the upcoming match as well as he appeared to still be recovering from a right toe sprain. One of the most anticipated duels in the imminent game will be between Kawhi Leonard and Kevin Durant. But the two-time Defensive Player of the Year isn’t worried he’s going to be facing one of the league’s deadliest scorers, Sportsnet reported.

“It’s just another game to build off of and get better,” Kawhi Leonard said. “To go out and challenge those guys, to score, also to defend, same thing we do every night. It’s a long road.” Warriors guard Klay Thompson recognizes the adversary their team will be facing and is excited to go toe-to-toe with the franchise that currently has the best record in the season on both conferences.

Stephen Curry feels the same way and said that he’s disappointed he’s going to be sitting this one out. Outside of the court, however, another breaking news has involved Kawhi Leonard as he opted to part ways with Jordan Brand and has signed a deal with New Balance.

To the surprise of no one, it was financial reasons that influenced Kawhi Leonard’s decision as New Balance reportedly offered a significant amount for the star to sign with the brand. Although no specific sum has been revealed, reports are coming in that it’s more than the $5 million amount that Jordan Brand offered to the 27-year-old.