Kawhi Leonard is reportedly set to return to the Toronto Raptors, with multiple reports indicating a trade agreement with the Los Angeles Clippers. This move would see Leonard, who previously led the Raptors to an NBA title, head back to Canada.
The Clippers are said to be receiving Brandon Ingram and Gradey Dick in the deal. Additionally, the Clippers are expected to acquire first-round draft picks in 2031 and 2033, second-round draft picks in 2030 and 2033, and a first-round pick swap in 2027.
Leonard’s Return to Toronto
Leonard spent one season with the Raptors, during which he helped the team secure its only championship in 2019. During that season, he averaged 26.6 points and 7.3 rebounds per game, earning NBA Finals MVP honors for the second time in his career. He had previously won a title with the San Antonio Spurs in 2014.
Reports suggest that the Raptors plan to initiate discussions with Leonard regarding a two-year contract extension. This extension would reportedly keep him with the team through the 2028-2029 seasons, with one insider reporting Leonard’s intention to finish his career in Toronto.
For collectors, particularly Raptors fans, Leonard’s return to Toronto is anticipated to positively impact his hobby market. His past success in the city, including a Finals MVP and bringing a championship, is a significant factor. The Raptors’ unique position as the only Canadian team, representing the entire country, also contributes to a larger collector base. Leonard’s reported commitment to the franchise is expected to provide stability for both fans and collectors, benefiting his collectibles market.
Clippers’ Era with Leonard Concludes
The trade marks the end of Leonard’s tenure with the Clippers, a period that, while productive at times, did not result in a championship for the team. The Clippers had initially signed Leonard ahead of the 2019-20 NBA season with the goal of becoming a championship contender.
Leonard and Paul George led the Clippers on two deep playoff runs in their initial years in Los Angeles. However, Leonard missed the entire 2021-22 season due to an ACL injury. Upon his return, the Clippers made the playoffs for three consecutive seasons but were eliminated in the first round each time.
Last season, Leonard posted a career-high 27.9 points per game and received MVP votes for the first time in four seasons. Despite this, the team did not reach the postseason, finishing 42-40 and being eliminated by the Golden State Warriors in the play-in tournament.
The Clippers’ decision to trade Leonard comes as he is owed $50 million in the final year of his current deal. The team opted against offering him an extension, choosing instead to move on. Leonard averaged 25.1 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game during his six seasons with the Clippers, making four All-Star teams and receiving MVP votes three times.
The trade also occurs amid an ongoing NBA investigation into the Clippers regarding potential salary cap circumvention during Leonard’s initial signing. The investigation concerns allegations of $28 million in payments for no-show jobs, which could have allowed Leonard to earn more than his contract stipulated, a violation of league rules. The outcome of this investigation could scrutinize any new contract Leonard signs.
The trade for Leonard is reportedly the first All-Star player to switch teams this summer, following the announcement that LeBron James would be departing the Los Angeles Lakers.
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Source: si.com
