Leonard’s Return to Toronto
Kawhi Leonard is set to return to the Toronto Raptors in a trade deal with the LA Clippers, expected to be finalized on Monday. This move marks a significant development for both franchises. Leonard’s connection to Toronto has remained evident, particularly through his community involvement in the city.
During a visit to Toronto in January, Leonard hosted a free basketball clinic for the Boys and Girls Club at TAT Stadium in Scarborough. This event was his first community engagement in the area since the 2019 NBA Finals. The court at TAT Stadium was dedicated to Leonard, featuring a mural commemorating his series-ending shot against the Philadelphia 76ers in the Eastern Conference semifinals, with Toronto mayor Olivia Chow in attendance.
At the clinic, Leonard expressed his enduring affection for the city. He stated, “Toronto is still in my heart. My son was born out here, so he’s Canadian. He’s from Canada, so we always talk about bringing him back and showing him where he was born.” He also indicated plans for continued community initiatives, saying, “We’re going to continue to do things throughout Toronto, Scarborough, all the other areas, to help the youth.”
Trade Details and Implications
The trade agreement involves the Clippers sending the 35-year-old Leonard to the Raptors. In exchange, the Clippers will receive 28-year-old All-Star Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, a 2027 first-round pick swap, second-round picks in 2030 and 2033, and unprotected first-round picks in 2031 and 2033. This package is considered substantial for the Clippers, especially when compared to the assets the Raptors traded eight years ago to acquire Leonard.
The previous trade for Leonard involved the Raptors giving up 28-year-old All-Star DeMar DeRozan, Jakob Poeltl, and a top-20 protected 2019 first-round pick, which the San Antonio Spurs used to select Keldon Johnson. This current deal is the second trade between the Clippers and Raptors this year involving a franchise icon, following Chris Paul’s move to the Raptors at the February deadline before his subsequent waiver into retirement.
Leonard’s departure from the Clippers follows a period where the team made other significant roster changes. The Clippers traded James Harden to the Cleveland Cavaliers for Darius Garland and a late second-round pick. Additionally, they traded center Ivica Zubac and Kobe Brown to the Indiana Pacers for Isaiah Jackson, Bennedict Mathurin, a 2029 first-round pick, a 2028 second-round pick, and a chance at a 2026 first-round pick, which became the No. 5 pick used to select Keaton Wagler.
Leonard’s Tenure and Health
Leonard’s time with the Clippers spanned seven seasons, during which he won three playoff series, none in his last five years. This contrasts with his single season with the Raptors, where he won four playoff series and an NBA championship. His tenure with the Clippers was marked by efforts to manage his workload, similar to the strategy employed during his championship season in Toronto, though he faced various injury setbacks.
Despite past health challenges, Leonard has recently indicated improved physical condition. He stated in April that his surgically repaired knee has not caused issues for the past two years, and he feels his body is “in a good place,” despite minor ankle and wrist injuries. He expressed a desire to continue playing as long as he maintains that drive.
Leonard signed his third and final contract with the Clippers on January 10, 2024, the day before a home game against the Raptors. The Raptors will now receive the third and final year of that contract. His return to Toronto brings him back to a place where he is celebrated, including the dedicated Kawhi Leonard Court in Scarborough, where his mantra, “You are stronger than you think,” is displayed.
The trade discussions between the Clippers and Raptors regarding Leonard’s return to Toronto became public knowledge on Thursday.
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Source: nytimes.com
