Leonard’s Potential Return to Toronto
Kawhi Leonard, a forward for the Los Angeles Clippers, is reportedly willing to sign a long-term extension with the Toronto Raptors if he is traded there. This information comes from reports by Shams Charania. Leonard is currently set to become an unrestricted free agent next summer and has a salary of $50.3 million for the upcoming 2026-27 season.
The possibility of Leonard returning to Toronto has been a topic of discussion, with reports indicating mutual interest. Michael Grange confirmed that the Raptors have explored the option of a trade to bring him back to the team. Leonard previously played for the Raptors in 2018, after being acquired in a trade that sent Jakob Poeltl and DeMar DeRozan to the San Antonio Spurs. This move preceded the Raptors‘ 2019 championship run.
During that championship season, Leonard averaged 30.5 points, 9.1 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 1.7 steals over 24 playoff games. He was also named the Finals MVP. Following that season, he departed to join the Clippers in Los Angeles.
Clippers’ Shifting Direction and Trade Rumours
While reports suggest Leonard’s preference is to remain in Los Angeles, the Clippers may be looking in a different direction. Charania noted that the Clippers are moving towards a younger roster. Grange also added that it is unlikely Leonard will receive an extension from the Clippers, and the team is open to finding him a new team.
A source indicated that the Clippers are not prepared to commit to Leonard, suggesting he might be attempting to facilitate a move. Over his eight seasons with the Clippers, Leonard has made the playoffs six times, but the team has only reached the Conference Finals once.
Leonard is coming off a productive season, averaging 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.9 steals in 65 appearances. He achieved shooting splits of 50.5/38.7/89.2 per cent. He tied for seventh in MVP voting and earned his seventh All-NBA selection (second-team).
Other Teams Reportedly Interested
Beyond Toronto, other teams are also reportedly interested in acquiring Leonard. The Dallas Mavericks have discussed a potential deal with the Clippers that could involve sending P.J. Washington, Klay Thompson, and draft picks to Los Angeles. Mavericks president Masai Ujiri, who was with the Raptors when they acquired Leonard in 2018, is reportedly interested in a reunion.
If a trade to Dallas were to materialize, Leonard could potentially play alongside Kyrie Irving, who is expected to return this fall. The Mavericks finished last season with a 26-56 record and were among the lowest-scoring teams in the NBA, ranking 27th in points per 100 possessions. Leonard, a two-time Defensive Player of the Year and seven-time All-NBA member, could bolster their offensive capabilities.
The Golden State Warriors are also predicted to be in contention for Leonard. Julia Stumbaugh suggested that the Warriors might compete with the Oklahoma City Thunder to acquire Leonard before the start of the new season. Leonard averaged 27.9 points per game last season.
The Warriors could consider adding Leonard’s production, potentially by moving Jimmy Butler’s contract, to transform their team into a contender. The Thunder, after falling short in the Western Conference Finals, might also be looking for a change. Leonard has one year remaining on his contract and is owed $50.3 million for the upcoming season.
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Source: sportsnet.ca
