2019 NBA Playoffs: Ranking the 5 Most Important Players

2. Kawhi Leonard

While many thought Kawhi Leonard could struggle in his return from injury, he has had a very stellar season in Toronto this year. He effectively filled up the stat sheet, averaging 26.6 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game. He also continues to be one of the NBA’s best perimeter defenders, consistently locking up some of the best scorers in the game.

Toronto Raptors v Washington Wizards

Although Toronto are arguably the deepest and most versatile side in the NBA, Kawhi is still far and away their best player. He is also their most experienced playoff performer, having won a title and Finals MVP award in his time with San Antonio.

If Leonard can’t perform at his best these playoffs, the Raptors chances of a lucrative NBA Finals berth appear slim. That said, he has a chance to re-enter the best player in the NBA conversation with a strong performance during these next two months.