Kawhi Leonard Embraces New All-Star Game Format

Clippers star says he's "up for" whatever grabs fans' attention

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Kawhi Leonard had a standout performance at the 2026 NBA All-Star Game, scoring 31 points and hitting the game-winning three-pointer. When asked about the new format of the event, Leonard expressed his support, saying "Whatever you guys want. Whatever you know, grabs the attention of the consumer, I am up for it." The Clippers star, who is currently averaging career-highs in points and steals, believes he is one of the best players in the league when he's at his best, though he acknowledged the difficulty in ranking players given the league's high level of talent.

Why it matters

Leonard's embrace of the new All-Star Game format reflects his willingness to adapt and entertain fans, which is important for the league's continued popularity. As one of the NBA's top two-way players, Leonard's performance and attitude are crucial for the Clippers' playoff push, as the team currently sits in 10th place in the Western Conference.

The details

Kawhi Leonard finished the 2026 NBA All-Star Game with 31 points, including the game-winning three-pointer. When asked about the new format of the event, which was designed to grab the attention of fans, Leonard expressed his full support, saying "Whatever you guys want. Whatever you know, grabs the attention of the consumer, I am up for it." The Clippers star, who is currently averaging career-highs of 27.9 points and 2.1 steals per game, believes he is one of the best players in the league when he's at his best, though he acknowledged the difficulty in ranking players given the league's high level of talent.

  • The 2026 NBA All-Star Game took place on February 16, 2026.

The players

Kawhi Leonard

A star player for the Los Angeles Clippers, known for his two-way dominance and clutch performances.

Los Angeles Clippers

An NBA team based in Los Angeles, California, currently in 10th place in the Western Conference standings.

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What they’re saying

“Whatever you guys want. Whatever you know, grabs the attention of the consumer, I am up for it.”

— Kawhi Leonard (ClutchPoints)

“I feel like I'm one of the best when I am playing basketball.”

— Kawhi Leonard (ClutchPoints)

What’s next

The Clippers will need to continue their recent run of form to overtake teams and secure a playoff spot, with Kawhi Leonard's continued dominance being crucial to their success.

The takeaway

Kawhi Leonard's embrace of the new All-Star Game format and his belief in his own abilities as one of the league's best players demonstrate his commitment to entertaining fans and leading the Clippers to the playoffs, despite the team's early-season struggles.