Spurs' Buford denies report of a rift between club, Leonard

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SAN ANTONIO – The Spurs' relationship with star forward Kawhi Leonard has hit a rough patch that stems from questions surrounding his rehabilitation from a right quadriceps injury that has limited him to just nine games this season, a national media outlet is reporting.

Citing unnamed league sources, ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski and Michael C. Wright wrote a story published on the media giant's website Monday that says "months of discord" centering on the two-time All-Star's rehab "have had a chilling impact" on Leonard's relationship with the franchise and coaching staff.

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According to ESPN, multiple anonymous sources describe Leonard and his camp as "distant" and "disconnected" from the organization.

But Spurs general manager R.C. Buford shot down ESPN's reporting of a rift between the parties.

Spurs GM R.C. Buford, pictured here in a file photo, has shot down ESPN's reporting of a rift between the organization and All Star Kawhi Leonard. Spurs GM R.C. Buford, pictured here in a file photo, has shot down ESPN's reporting of a rift between the organization and All Star Kawhi Leonard. Photo: JERRY LARA, Staff / San Antonio Express-News Photo: JERRY LARA, Staff / San Antonio Express-News Image 1 of / 24 Caption Close Spurs' Buford denies report of a rift between club, Leonard 1 / 24 Back to Gallery

"There is no issues between the Spurs organization and Kawhi," Buford told ESPN in an interview. "From Day 1 all parties have worked together to find the best solutions to his injury."

Buford said the situation has been "difficult for everyone."

"It's been difficult for Kawhi," ESPN quoted Buford as saying. "He's an elite-level player. It's been difficult for the team, because they want to play with a great teammate. And it's been difficult for our staff. Historically, we've been able to successfully manage injuries. This rehab hasn't been simple, and it hasn't gone in a linear fashion."

Leonard missed the first 27 games of the regular season after sitting out all of the preseason. Last week, the Spurs announced they were shutting him down for an indefinite period so he can continue to rehab.