Leonard had an off night, however, missing most long shots aside from the big one. The star players struggled altogether, and the team's overall defensive chemistry kept squandering any lead they obtained throughout, even a 17-point advantage at one point in the game.
"Ah, he went for the two-point shot down low where he's pretty good on occasion. We wouldn't be in overtime if it wasn't for Kawhi, and it's up to him in those moments with the game on the line to make decisions and be able to live with the results," Coach Popovich told David Aldridge on the sideline after the game, moments after watching Leonard miss a hook shot over Devin Booker (30 points). Leonard's confidence might've been shaken given his usual proficiency from range. But Coach Pop joked when asked if the team's spirits would be low after finally being defeated on its own home court. "Well, we had to lose some time! Merry Christmas to you, David!"
Aldridge asked about Devin Booker's strong showing, despite defensive coverage by the Spurs best defenders, Leonard and Iman Shumpert. "He's a terrific talent. Sinks that ball through the net in his sleep. Kawhi gave it his best effort, and so did Shump. And Booker didn't beat us by himself. I'm just glad to see Shump making some shots when it matters. Chip's been working a lot with him lately." Shumpert finished with 16 points; Jeremy Lamb had 17, despite cooling off in the 2nd half of play.
"I'm definitely going to be more aggressive next game," Leonard said in the locker room. "I trust my shot, but I was arrogant tonight and a little lazy. That's on me, and y'all will see me back to form next game." Patty Mills managed 25 points and 7 three-pointers in the loss, as Phoenix shot 51% to SA's 49%, winning both battles of rebounds and assists. The Spurs also missed too many free throws.