Clippers win fourth straight game while Leonard plays first back-to-back in a year

L.A. is now 46-32 and have won 14 of their last 17.

(Photo credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images)

INGLEWOOD, Calif. -- One word, three letters.

Yes.

It was what LA Clippers coach Tyronn Lue said when asked if forward Kawhi Leonard, who had played in Friday’s win, would suit up for action on Saturday night.

Sure, it might not seem like a big deal. But it was.

After all, Saturday marked the first time since March 24 and 25 last year, some 376 days ago, that Leonard had last played in a back-to-back.

It is, without a doubt, a meaningful moment. And one that Leonard had been pushing towards for quite some time.

“Actually, he’s been wanting to do it, and we just wanted to make sure it was right,” Lue said ahead of the team’s 135-104 win against the Dallas Mavericks on Saturday night.

“Medical wanted to make sure they checked every box and make sure we put him in the best position,” Lue added. “We didn’t want to risk anything. Kawhi’s been trying to do it for some time now, playing in back-to-backs, but our medical staff was really cautious and making sure that everything was right. Tonight is right and, so, we’re going to go with it.”

Tonight was right indeed as Leonard scored 29 points in 25 minutes, adhering to a minutes restriction.