In a remarkable display of athletic prowess, Kawhi Leonard turned the first game of 2026 into a personal highlight reel, delivering a performance that will be etched in Clippers franchise history.

The star forward achieved a rare milestone by becoming only the second player in team history to record multiple regular-season games with 45+ points, 5+ rebounds, and 5+ three-pointers made - a feat previously accomplished solely by Paul George.

Leonard's 39-minute masterclass against the Utah Jazz was nothing short of spectacular. Shooting an impressive 16-29 from the field, including 6-16 from beyond the arc, he methodically dismantled the opposing defense. His free throw precision was equally impressive, converting 7 of 9 attempts and ultimately finishing with a game-high 45 points.

Beyond his scoring prowess, Leonard demonstrated his all-around capabilities by securing 7 defensive rebounds, blocking 2 shots, and stealing the ball twice. While he did turn the ball over 3 times - a team-high for the evening - he also contributed 3 assists, trailing only James Harden's 7.

The Clippers' 118-107 victory marked their sixth consecutive win, improving their season record to 12-21. This impressive streak comes after a challenging start to the year, with Leonard's sustained health and dominant performances playing a crucial role in the team's resurgence.

This season, Leonard has made 23 appearances, averaging an impressive 28.5 points, 6.5 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game. During the current winning streak, he's been even more remarkable, averaging 39.0 points while shooting 53% from the field and an outstanding 44% from three-point range, complemented by 8.5 rebounds per game.

For Clippers fans, Leonard's performance offers a tantalizing glimpse of the team's potential, transforming what seemed like a disappointing season into a narrative of resilience and extraordinary individual achievement.