San Antonio Spurs: 5 goals for Kawhi Leonard in 2017-18

OAKLAND, CA - MAY 14: Kawhi Leonard #2 of the San Antonio Spurs shoots a free throw during the game against the Golden State Warriors during Game One of the Western Conference Finals of the 2017 NBA Playoffs on May 14, 2017 at ORACLE Arena in Oakland, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Noah Graham/NBAE via Getty Images) /

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4. Increase his rebounds per game

Over the summer, the San Antonio Spurs lost both David Lee and Dewayne Dedmon. This means for the Spurs that there is going to be an even larger number of available rebounds than before. Kawhi Leonard has such an incredible read of the game he should be able to position himself for a good number of these.

Last season, Leonard averaged 5.8 rebounds per game, which at the small forward position, is quite respectable. However, Russell Westbrook of the Oklahoma City Thunder showed the world what can be accomplished if you have a game plan that centers on the strengths of a player.

If Leonard is able to collect the defensive rebound, he has a similar ability to get into the open court and create like Westbrook does. By getting the rebound, Leonard will have the opportunity to trigger the offense to get some easy points. I have the feeling the Spurs are going to need all the points they can get.

Also, by Leonard getting the rebound, he is able to stop the pass from big to playmaker, which allows players like Mills and Green to break down the court. This allows them to set up and be ready for a better look at a higher percentage 3-pointer.

It could also lead to more highlight reel dunks from Leonard in transition, and who wouldn’t want to see more of that?

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