Leaps into excuses (5)

I believe the answer is:

pleas

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'excuses' is the definition.
(I've seen this in another clue)

'leaps' is the wordplay.
'leaps' can be anagrammed to 'PLEAS'.
However, I am not clear how the anagram is indicated.

'into' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for pleas that I've seen before include "Entreats" , "Urgent entreaties" , "Excuses, pretexts" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.