Kawhi Leonard’s Raptors return was incredible, but his role felt off

Writer Chris Lambert argues that while Kawhi Leonard's preseason debut for the Toronto Raptors was impressive, his role felt unusually limited to that of an off-ball role player. Leonard scored 21 points, added five rebounds, two steals, and four 3-pointers in 17 minutes during Toronto's 148-98 victory over the New York Knicks on Tuesday night.

Lambert notes that Leonard attempted only three self-created shots, operating primarily off screens and catches rather than acting as a dominant primary scorer. While acknowledging factors such as head coach Darko Rajakovic easing Leonard into rhythm and New York resting key starters, the writer expresses concern over Leonard functioning mainly as an off-ball wing rather than Toronto's clear primary offensive engine.