NBA trade deadline inactivity leaves Kawhi Leonard questioning Clippers’ title hopes
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LOS ANGELES — Kawhi Leonard said the Los Angeles Clippers undermined their championship aspirations by standing pat at the NBA trade deadline, arguing that the roster now lacks the depth required to contend.
Speaking on Feb. 20, 2026, the two-time Finals MVP told reporters the front office missed an opportunity to fortify a team that entered the season with high expectations. Leonard contended the Clippers needed additional playmaking and size but failed to address either area before the deadline.
The forward’s comments come with Los Angeles sitting in the middle of the Western Conference pack. Leonard stressed that he and fellow star Paul George will “keep competing,” yet he emphasized that postseason success typically hinges on late-season reinforcements the club did not secure.
While Leonard did not single out specific targets, he noted that several rival contenders added rotation players in early February, leaving the Clippers to rely heavily on their current core for the stretch run.
Source: New York Post
