Kawhi Leonard stands a chance to contend for the MVP if he leads the LA Clippers to stay competitive in the Western Conference

Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard has built an impressive resume that includes two Defensive Player of the Year and NBA Finals trophies. However, the Most Valuable Player Plum is one prestigious individual accolade that has eluded him. His best chance of capturing this award may come this upcoming season if he can lead the Clippers to the NBA Playoffs despite the franchise's rocky state.

Can Kawhi play in 65 games?

Any discussion involving "The Claw" starts and ends with the state of his body. Since the NBA instituted the 65-game requirement for MVP candidates, it begs the question: can Kawhi play in that many games, especially after missing so many games late last season due to a knee injury?

Leonard played in 68 games last season, the most he's played since the 2016-2017 season. He also averaged 23.7 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game, earning All-Star and All-NBA berths.

"Health will always concern Leonard, heading into his age-33 season. But when healthy, he's still one of the best basketball players on the planet," Greg Swartz shared .

"If the Clippers don't fall too far in the standings after losing George, Leonard should garner serious MVP talk," the Bleacher Report analyst asserted.

Bearing the burden of leadership

With Paul George leaving the Clippers for the Philadelphia 76ers, more will be expected from Kawhi, the team's main focal point on both ends. Fortunately, he will still have veteran guard and former NBA MVP James Harden on his side, ensuring he will get ball possession at his sweet spots.

"James Harden returning at point guard should mean Leonard still gets the ball in the spots he wants, and there's enough shooting on this roster to keep the floor spread," Swartz stated. "If Los Angeles can remain in the top six seeds with a win total approaching 50 again, Leonard will likely be the primary reason."

Kawhi is one of the league's best players, and he can further burnish his reputation with an MVP trophy. It may take an MVP-type campaign from Leonard to keep the Clippers in the hunt for a playoff spot next season.

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