Shams: The Clippers traded Leonard back to the Raptors in exchange for Ingram, Dick, and five draft picks.
2026-07-01 11:48
According to ESPN's Shams Charania on Sunday, the Los Angeles Clippers and Toronto Raptors have reached a blockbuster trade agreement. The Clippers sent 35-year-old All-Star forward Kawhi Leonard to the Raptors in exchange for Brandon Ingram, Grady Dick, and five draft picks.
Shams further pointed out that the Clippers acquired unprotected first-round picks in 2031 and 2033, second-round picks in 2030 and 2033, and the right to swap first-round picks in 2027.
As the 15th overall pick in the 2011 NBA draft, Leonard has played for the San Antonio Spurs, Toronto Raptors, and Los Angeles Clippers. To date, he has played 798 regular season games, averaging 20.7 points, 6.4 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 1.7 steals in 31.8 minutes per game, and has garnered numerous accolades, including seven All-Star selections, two All-NBA First Team selections, two Defensive Player of the Year awards, and one steals title.
Leonard also played 146 playoff games, averaging 21.5 points, 7.8 rebounds, 3.0 assists, and 1.8 steals in 35.6 minutes per game, with a field goal percentage of 51.3% and a three-point percentage of 39.9%. His most representative achievements are undoubtedly leading the Spurs and Raptors to championships in 2014 and 2019, respectively, and winning the Finals MVP award.
Kawhi Leonard's contract has only one season remaining, worth a whopping $50.3 million. Considering his age, injury concerns, and desire for salary flexibility, the Clippers are unwilling to offer him a long-term maximum contract extension this summer.
With the trade officially completed, the Clippers' intention to continue rejuvenating their roster has become increasingly clear. They traded away James Harden and Ivica Zubac in February and will rebuild their roster around All-Star point guard Darius Garland and this year's fifth overall pick, Keaton Wagler.
Meanwhile, the Raptors reunited with Leonard after nearly seven years. They believe that Leonard, with his historic one-on-one ability and spacing ability, will perfectly complement players like Scottie Barnes, RJ Barrett, and Jacob Poeltl.
As for Leonard himself, he is open to returning to the Raptors. According to multiple reporters including Chris Haynes and Bobby Marks, the Raptors are currently preparing to discuss a two-year, $124 million contract extension with Leonard.
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