The Western Conference has always been a fiercely competitive division in the league, where the win-loss difference between teams is often minimal by the end of the season, and a single game can determine whether a team makes it to the playoffs. Therefore, every game in the West is crucial.
The Clippers have not been overshadowed in terms of attention compared to the Warriors and Lakers in the league. This season, after the departure of George and Westbrook, many people were concerned about the Clippers' prospects. However, under Harden's leadership, the Clippers have presented a surprising record so far. And recently, they received another piece of good news: Leonard, who has been out since the beginning of the season, is expected to return and may choose to come back in the next one or two games.
With Leonard's return, Western Conference teams might start feeling nervous as the Clippers will immediately become a top-tier powerhouse. Although they lost George, Powell has performed exceptionally well this season, averaging 24.2 points, which is already at an All-Star level. In fact, his performance this season far exceeds that of Paul George, making him one of the Clippers' giants in a strict sense.
After Leonard's return, the Clippers will still have a trio of superstars. Harden, Powell, and Leonard will set sail again for the Clippers. The significance of Leonard's return lies in the fact that the Clippers will have more players capable of deciding games in critical moments. As we all know, Leonard is a player with excellent clutch abilities, averaging 24+6+4 last season.
If the Clippers find themselves in a tight game, Leonard's presence on the court could be decisive. He can end the game in the final moments with his stable one-on-one scoring ability, which is what the Clippers desperately need right now. After all, Harden's current form is declining, and Leonard has an outstanding playoff record, seemingly invincible in the postseason. While Harden's playoff performance may dip, Leonard gets stronger as the playoffs progress. This is what the Clippers need to rely on heavily in the playoffs.
For Leonard, what he needs to ensure next is that his injuries do not recur. Perhaps Tyronn Lue needs to adjust Leonard's playing time, breaking it up as much as possible to avoid excessive wear and tear on the court and any potential injury risks. If Leonard can stay healthy throughout the season, it would be significant for the Clippers, as they would have a real chance at contending for the championship.