WATCH: Aldridge steps under Durant in another risky closeout

MANILA, Philippines – In the past couple of days the dangers of a defender leaving a shooter with no space to land have been intensely dissected, scrutinized, and debated on social media.

And now a new case study has emerged with San Antonio’s LaMarcus Aldridge appearing to take an “extra step” as Golden State’s Kevin Durant attempted a 3-pointer.

Durant’s right foot landed on Aldridge’s left foot, as seen in the video above, but he escaped unscathed – unlike Kawhi Leonard two days earlier.

The debate continues after Leonard sprained his left ankle again during a pivotal third quarter play in Game 1, where he landed on Zaza Pachulia’s foot as the center closed out to defend the Spurs star.

Leonard promptly left the game at that point and went on to miss Game 2 of the best-of-7 series, where the Warriors blew out the Spurs, 136-100, for a 2-0 lead.

A big point of discussion on social media is whether Pachulia intended to take out Leonard or not. Another facet involves examining the need for institutional change with the NBA altering its rules on such plays.

Leonard could potentially return for Game 3 on Saturday, May 20 (Sunday, May 21 in Manila) after nearly a full week of rest. Pachulia has since also injured his heel in Game 2. – Rappler.com