Kawhi Leonard shares his straightforward opinion on the NBA’s best player.

Kawhi Leonard recently offered a candid perspective on the ever-popular debate about who the best player in the NBA is — and he made it clear that he doesn’t put too much stock in the constant rankings and hype.

Since just before Christmas, there may not be a player in the league performing at a higher level than the Los Angeles Clippers star. Something appeared to shift for Leonard following the team’s December 20 win over the Los Angeles Lakers. At that point, the Clippers were struggling through a miserable 6–21 start to the season. But in the weeks since, they have completely turned things around, posting a 20–7 record and reestablishing themselves as a legitimate threat in the Western Conference.

Leonard’s individual production during that stretch has been nothing short of elite. He has been playing at an MVP-caliber level, averaging 30 points per game along with 6.9 rebounds, 4.0 assists, and 2.2 steals. His efficiency has been just as impressive as his counting stats, shooting 49 percent from the field, 40 percent from beyond the arc, and 89 percent from the free-throw line. On both ends of the floor, he has looked like the dominant two-way force who once led teams to championships.

Given that level of play, many were surprised when Leonard was not initially selected as an All-Star. NBA head coaches did not vote him onto the roster, which raised eyebrows considering how well he had been performing. It ultimately took a wave of injuries to create an opening, prompting Commissioner Adam Silver to add Leonard to the Team USA Stripes squad.

When he finally got the opportunity to showcase his talent at the All-Star event, Leonard made sure it counted. Playing in front of his home crowd at Intuit Dome, he delivered a dazzling performance. In just 10 minutes of action, Leonard poured in 31 points on an astonishing 11-of-13 shooting, helping Team USA Stripes secure a 48–45 win over Team World. It was a powerful reminder of just how explosive and efficient he can be when healthy and locked in.

Despite his recent dominance, Leonard remains grounded when it comes to discussions about who sits atop the NBA hierarchy. He described the “best player” conversation as something that constantly shifts. In his view, the league operates on a rotation of standout performances. On any given night, one player might erupt for 50 points or anchor an elite defensive effort, only for someone else to steal the spotlight the next game. Because of that, Leonard suggested that rankings often serve more to generate excitement and maintain buzz around the sport than to definitively crown one individual.

Rather than campaigning for recognition or getting caught up in debates, Leonard expressed quiet confidence in his own abilities. He stated that he believes he is one of the best players in the world when he is on the court. It was not a boastful proclamation, but rather a matter-of-fact acknowledgment of the standard he holds for himself.

That confidence is rooted in his track record as a premier two-way player. Even amid outside noise — including past scrutiny surrounding injuries and contract-related controversies — Leonard has consistently demonstrated his value when available. From 2021 through 2024, his career was repeatedly disrupted by knee issues that limited his availability and prevented him from sustaining postseason momentum with the Clippers. Those injuries were frustrating for both Leonard and the organization, as the team’s championship aspirations often hinged on his health.

“I feel like I’m one of the best at when I am playing basketball.” 👀

Kawhi Leonard on how the top player in the NBA changes by the day. pic.twitter.com/wrNR0k3LzD

— NBA (@NBA) February 16, 2026

Now, however, Leonard appears revitalized. Physically, he looks as strong and agile as he has since his 2019 championship run. His defensive instincts remain sharp, his midrange game is lethal, and he continues to control the tempo with his deliberate style. In many ways, this stretch feels like a second prime.

As a result, the Clippers have transformed from an early-season disappointment into a dangerous lower-seeded contender in the Western Conference. With Leonard leading the charge and additional reinforcements expected once key players return to full health, Los Angeles is positioning itself as a team no one will want to face in the playoffs.

Ultimately, Leonard’s stance on the “best player” debate reflects his personality: understated, focused, and unconcerned with hype. He understands how fluid greatness can be in a league filled with elite talent. While others argue over rankings, Leonard is content to let his performance speak for itself — and lately, it has been speaking very loudly.