Just seven months ago, ESPN's Kendrick Perkins called on Kawhi Leonard to retire.
Leonard didn't of course. He kept battling his way onto the court for the Clippers. And although their season ended Saturday night, Leonard proved something to himself and all the doubters.
This is a guy who remains one of the very best players in the NBA.
At Leonard's peak, it always felt that way. He's a dominant wing defender with a near-unstoppable offensive arsenal.
Then came the injuries, and more injuries, and some load management and some more injuries anyway.
It just felt like Leonard was falling apart, like he couldn't keep himself in enough shape to consistently impact winning in the NBA.
MORE: James Harden is the worst Game 7 player in NBA history
Then came this season with the Clippers, in which he played most nights and shone on pretty much every occasion he took the floor.
Leonard won't be around forever, but this was proof both of his all-time great ability and his still-present talent.
The Clippers likely have to run it back with this group now, because Leonard is still a player you can be a dominant NBA team with if you put the right players around him.
The injuries may return. Maybe age catches up with him.
But it's refreshing for basketball fans to have gotten to watch Leonard at his best again. Because Leonard's best is among the best ever.
MORE: Bronny casts doubt on LeBron's retirement