Kawhi Leonard wants to “shock the world, again.” His first game back with the Raptors offered an encouraging start.
Leonard finished with 23 points, six rebounds, four steals, two assists and a block in 24 minutes Wednesday as Toronto overwhelmed the Bulls 135-92. But when asked about reaching midseason form, he made clear that his workload will build on its own schedule.
“You can’t rush greatness,” Leonard said, via Hunter Patterson of The Athletic. “You know, whenever the medical (staff) thinks I could push forward and I’m feeling great, whatever numbers we’re looking at, or they’re looking at, then that’s when that time will come.”
“I was just happy to be out there and do the best I can with my minutes.”
Toronto gave him plenty of help. Scottie Barnes and Immanuel Quickley each scored 23 points, while RJ Barrett added 20. Barnes took more shots than Leonard, an early example of how the Raptors can spread the scoring responsibilities around their returning star.
Leonard’s ambitions remain high. In a video posted on social media ahead of the opener, he expressed his desire to “shock the world, again,” invoking the possibility of another memorable run in Toronto.
He returns after a productive final season with the Clippers, averaging a career-high 27.9 points along with 6.4 rebounds, 3.6 assists and 1.9 steals in 65 games. He also shot 38.7% from three-point range.
The Raptors next visit the Wizards and Timberwolves before returning home for two games against the Magic.
Leonard didn’t need extended minutes to make an impression Wednesday. With three teammates scoring at least 20, Toronto didn’t need to ask for them.
Looking for the latest NBA Insider News & Rumors?
Be sure to follow Hoops Wire on TWITTER and FACEBOOK for breaking NBA News and Rumors for all 30 teams!
