Q:
A: there is no direct connection except for the fact that both st. patrick and leprechaun are irish. much like bunnies and Easter Sunday have no direct connection. st. patrick was known for having driven out pagan beliefs and imagery in ancient ireland while leprechauns are based upon Irish luck fairies and the Celtic version of dwarves, which were small slimy gold hunting tricksters. the only sensible explanation could be that because both represent good luck.