Gregg Popovich begged Kawhi Leonard on multiple occasions to let him announce that he would be out for the remainder of the season.

Leonard's uncertain status put Popovich in an uncomfortable position where he couldn't give the media an easy answer on his status. Even in the playoffs, Leonard's status remained uncertain.

Leonard left the Spurs on two occasions to rehab in New York.

Despite the issues, the Spurs believed the relationship with worth salvaging. Popovich met with Leonard in San Diego ahead of the draft in June.