Kawhi Leonard is making his case for MVP with an incredible March
Russell Westbrook and James Harden have dominated the headlines for much of the season, but the recent play of Kawhi Leonard has quickly pushed the Spurs forward into the top of the MVP conversation.
The reigning Western Conference Player of the Week has been sensational over the past several games, leading San Antonio to four straight victories with his incredible fourth-quarter play.
Here's a quick look at Leonard's magnificent March:
March 1 vs. Indiana
Final line: 31 points (11-of-22 shooting), 10 rebounds, three steals, two assists
It was only fitting that Leonard began his torrid stretch against the team who traded him away.
The 25-year-old channeled his inner Kobe with the game on the line, backing down Paul George before hitting a dagger fadeaway that ultimately sealed the victory for San Antonio.
After drawing comparisons to George earlier in his career, Leonard once again outdueled his counterpart, holding the Pacers small forward to just 5-of-18 shooting.
March 3 vs. New Orleans
Final line: 31 points (11-of-26 shooting), seven rebounds, six assists, three steals
For the second straight game, Leonard came up clutch late in the fourth.
The 6-foot-7 small forward spoiled the Pelicans' chances of capturing a much-needed victory, collecting a steal-and-dunk in the final minute of play to bring the game within one.
San Antonio would go on to win in overtime, extending the Spurs' winning streak to six games.
March 4 vs. Minnesota
Final line: 34 points (11-of-25 shooting), 10 rebounds, six steals, five assists, one block
Leonard showed no signs of wear on the second night of a back to back.
After dominating the Timberwolves in regulation, Leonard took things up another notch in overtime, collecting six points, a rebound, and an assist in the extra period.
The victory was not insignificant, as San Antonio clinched a playoff berth for the 20th straight season - tying the Utah Jazz for the third-longest postseason streak in league history.
March 6 vs. Rockets
Final line: 39 points (12-of-18 shooting), six rebounds, five assists, two blocks, one steal
Just like he has for much of his career, Kawhi saved his best basketball for his toughest opponent.
The two-time Defensive Player of the Year churned out arguably his best performance of the season in Monday's victory over the third-seeded Rockets, leading many around the league to wonder whether Leonard had suddenly leaped James Harden in the MVP race.
While Harden has been exceptional in his own right, history is not on his side, as the last player to win MVP from a team outside the top two seeds was Michael Jordan in 1988.
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