Raptors coach touts Leonard’s leadership after Popovich’s criticism

Nick Nurse and Gregg Popovich have very different perspectives when it comes to Kawhi Leonard’s leadership skills.

Popovich, the Spurs’ longtime head coach, was less than complimentary when asked about Leonard’s ability to lead in his San Antonio days. Questioned before Saturday’s game in Milwaukee about the importance of Patty Mills following the loss of Leonard to the Raptors, Tony Parker to the Hornets and Manu Ginobili to retirement, Popovich said Leonard “was a great player, but wasn’t a leader or anything.