San Antonio Spurs star Kawhi Leonard reportedly requested a trade two weeks ago, following reports of tension between he and several teammates, along with head coach Gregg Popovich.
Leonard only played nine games during the 2017-18 season as he nursed a quad injury. Even though he was given the green light to play again for the team, Leonard opted to sit out and work on recovery. Despite teammates asking him to come back and help them gear up for a playoff run, Leonard stood firm on his decision. Now, it seems like he's already played his last game as a Spur.
But one former Spurs standout player simply won't buy anything Leonard has to say. Appearing on SiriusXM NBA Radio, Bruce Bowen ripped Leonard and accused him of making 'excuses' as he tries to orchestrate an exit from An Antonio.
Bowen spent eight seasons with the Spurs and helped them win the NBA Championship in 2003, 2005 and 2007. One of Popovich's absolute favorites, Bowen was also a five-time member of the NBA All-Defensive First Team. Given his strong working relationship with Coach Pop, it's no surprise Bowen believes Leonard is in the wrong here.
Leonard prefers to play for either his hometown Los Angeles Lakers or Clippers, though Sam Amick of USA Today reported that the Spurs aren't willing to deal him to a Western Conference team.
When healthy, Leonard is without a doubt a top-five player in the NBA. He's by far the best defensively, and his complete all-around game make Leonard a difference maker on the court. As such, the Spurs will want to take their time as they look for he right offer.
But if there's one man who can convince his star player to withdraw a request, it's the legendary 'Coach Pop'. The Spurs are running out of time to add more titles before the window closes, and so they'll either have to keep Leonard or strike gold in a potential trade.