Toronto Raptors head coach Nick Nurse says star small forward Kawhi Leonard hasn't been feeling well over the past few days and didn't practice before Game 3 of their first round series against the Orlando Magic.
There was no way Leonard was going to miss Game 3, though. The two-time Defensive Player of the Year played 37 minutes and recorded a double-double with 16 points and 10 rebounds.
More importantly, Leonard led the Raptors to a 98-93 win over the Magic, giving Toronto a 2-1 lead in the series. Nurse says it was a “gutsy” performance by Leonard.
"That was a gutsy performance by him."
Nick Nurse on how Kawhi (16 PTS & 10 REB) handled Orlando's defense in Game 3. #NBAPlayoffs pic.twitter.com/vvYrf39cAt
— NBA TV (@NBATV) April 20, 2019
With the win, the Raptors have regained home-court advantage. They will look to take a commanding 3-1 series lead in Game 4, which is on Sunday.
Leonard wasn't his usual efficient self in Game 3. The three-time All-Star shot just 5-of-19 from the field and had a team-high six turnovers. It's pretty evident Leonard wasn't at 100 percent, but he's a warrior and will do whatever it takes to help his team win.
Hopefully, Leonard feels better in Game 4 and is able to perform like the superstar he is. The Raptors, led by Leonard, Pascal Siakam and Kyle Lowry, have a really good shot at winning the Eastern Conference this season if everyone on the roster remains healthy.
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