Kawhi Leonard Set A New Career High In A Dominant Performance Against The Jazz

Because Kawhi Leonard has only appeared in 30 of his team’s 39 games this season, the Toronto Raptors star isn’t often mentioned in discussions centering on the NBA MVP chase. Still, the two-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year is enjoying a very impressive season in Toronto and, on Tuesday, Leonard put together the best scoring performance of his career.

The 27 year old exploded for a career-best 45 points (on 16-for-22 shooting and 13-for-17 from the line) in a 122-116 win over the Utah Jazz and, considering the level of defensive resistance typically deployed by the opponent, Leonard’s showing was no fluke. As usual, he showed off an array of offensive maneuvers, including a ridiculous finish over the outstretched arms of Rudy Gobert.

Leonard wasn’t done there, putting together a second half for the ages in scoring 30 points on near-perfect shooting.

In fact, his third quarter was perfect, as Leonard made all seven of his shot attempts on the way to 19 points.

Given that Leonard entered the night averaging nearly 27 points per game, it is certainly within reason that he would be capable of what he did against Utah. Still, it is noteworthy when one of the best players in the NBA sets a new baseline for individual success and Toronto picked up another win as a result of his dominance.