iStock/Thinkstock(OKLAHOMA CITY) — Kawhi Leonard is taking on more responsibility from San Antonio’s veteran core, and the Spurs are rolling.
The 23-year-old forward matched a career high with 26 points for the second straight game, and the Spurs defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder 113-88 on Tuesday night for their eighth straight victory.
Leonard is averaging 19.4 points per game and shooting 59 percent from the field during the win streak.
“He’s been absolutely amazing,” Spurs center Tim Duncan said. “He’s on a tear right now, and we’re riding him. He’s not doing it the wrong way. He’s taking great shots and continuing to be unselfish, but he’s absolutely being aggressive. That’s what we need from him.”
Spurs coach Gregg Popovich said Leonard, last year’s NBA Finals MVP, is becoming more comfortable in a leading role.
“He doesn’t have a chip on his shoulder or trying to make a statement, he’s just playing,” Popovich said. “He’s getting better all the time and getting more confident. We’re getting him more and more room, and you’re seeing a young player blossom.”
The Spurs have won each game during their streak by double digits and by an average of 20.9 points. The defending NBA champions have allowed 93 points or fewer in all eight contests.
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