Kawhi Leonard has been perfect from the charity stripe lately.
Kawhi Leonard has accomplished a lot in his 14-season career and after a slow start to the season that has been held back by injuries, Leonard is back at his full form.
Leonard is averaging 26.2 points, the most on the Clippers, 6.3 rebounds and 3.5 assists per game and he''s been playing at an exceptionally high level in recent games, scoring 20 or more in each of his five games, including a massive 41 point performance against the Houston Rockets on Dec. 23.
Leonard has been heating up across the board, but the way he's shot from the free throw line has been remarkable. Leonard has nailed his last 52 free throws in a row, adding yet another factor to his outstanding scoring game and showcasing his remarkable accuracy when it comes to high pressure situation.
LA Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) shoots a free-throw against the Charlotte Hornets during the first half at Intuit Dome. Jonathan Hui-Imagn ImagesConsistency Breeds Accuracy
When it comes to shooting from the charity stripe, Leonard hasn't been doing anything differently. In fact, it's the consistency in his preparation that has ensured his success in those moments.
"Just going there and making it count. Just doing my repetition, the same thing I do at practice. And God is making them fall," Leonard said (via Clippers).
Free throws are an under-appreciated aspect of the game. A seemingly easy opportunity, evidenced by "free" being part of the name, it's still a skill that some players never get the grasp of.
It may be a chance to score without any movement or defenders blocking your path, but with all eyes on you, it's a test of focus and precision that leaves little room for error. In those big moments, Leonard rarely misses.
Elite From the Line All Season
He's shooting an incredible 98.8% from the free throw line, no doubt bolstered by his streak. With 5.5 free throw attempts per game, that means that Leonard is all but guaranteed to give his team close to double digits in extra points.
Leonard's hot-streak coincides with the first real ray of light that the Clippers have had all season. After starting 6-21, the Clippers have win their last three straight for their first real win streak of the season.
The Clippers are Heating Up
Against teams like the Los Angeles Lakers, Rockets and Portland Trail Blazers, the Clippers have looked like a brand new team with a rejuvenated mentality and outstanding performances from their stars in Leonard and James Harden.
Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) goes to the basket during the first half against the Houston Rockets at Intuit Dome. Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images"It's great. I'm happy to get another win, especially a road win, these have been tough to get all year. We battled it out."