Raptors’ potential trade options for Leonard
The Toronto Raptors are reportedly considering various trade packages to acquire Kawhi Leonard from the LA Clippers. Leonard, who led the Raptors to their sole championship in 2019 before departing for the Clippers, could potentially reunite with his former team. Discussions between the Raptors and Clippers are said to involve several players and draft assets.
One potential trade scenario, which the Raptors might favour, involves sending Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, a 2028 First-Round Pick (TOR), and a 2031 First-Round Pick Swap (TOR) to the Clippers in exchange for Leonard. Ingram, currently under contract for two seasons, averaged 21.5 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 3.7 assists last season, offering the Clippers a productive player with future flexibility. Dick, a 23-year-old sharpshooter, averaged 6.0 points in the previous season and is seen as a high-potential asset who could thrive in Los Angeles.
Given Leonard’s expiring contract, the Raptors may be hesitant to offer numerous draft assets. Additionally, investigations could influence the Clippers’ willingness to prolong negotiations. Leonard’s value is considered high, with a career-best scoring year where he averaged 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.9 steals, which might prompt the Clippers to seek a substantial return.
Alternative trade proposals and other interested teams
Another reported trade package suggests the Clippers might prefer RJ Barrett as a returning asset instead of Ingram. This deal could see the Clippers receive Barrett, Dick, Ja’Kobe Walter, and a 2028 First-Round Pick (TOR), with Leonard going to Toronto. This particular arrangement could create a gap at the shooting guard or swingman position for the Raptors, which they might address by adjusting Ingram’s role to accommodate Leonard, Scottie Barnes, and Collin-Murray Boyles in the defensive frontcourt.
While the Clippers might show interest in Murray-Boyles as a primary returning piece, it is considered unlikely that the Raptors would make him available in trade talks. Barrett could potentially fit alongside Darius Garland in the Clippers’ backcourt or serve as a wing option, potentially negating the need for the Clippers to re-sign Bennedict Mathurin.
Beyond Toronto, other teams have been mentioned in connection with Leonard. The Dallas Mavericks, led by president Masai Ujiri, who previously worked with Leonard in Toronto, have reportedly discussed a deal with the Clippers. This potential trade could involve sending P.J. Washington, Klay Thompson, and draft picks to the Clippers for Leonard. However, some reports indicate that Dallas is not currently viewed as a plausible destination for the Clippers star.
Despite these discussions, the Clippers are reportedly determined to retain Leonard, who also has an interest in remaining in Los Angeles. If Leonard were to be traded, reports suggest that the Raptors and the San Antonio Spurs are the only teams he would consider signing a long-term deal with.
Ujiri, who was with the Raptors from 2013 to 2025 and served as the team’s president for the latter half of his tenure, took over as the Mavericks’ team president in May. He stated his focus is on the future of the team, emphasizing that decisions would not be solely based on immediate wins, despite the potential of pairing Leonard with Cooper Flagg and Kyrie Irving.
The Raptors are reportedly looking to be opportunistic in the trade market, with point guard and center widely considered their primary needs, though they are exploring other options, including a potential reunion with Leonard.
Leonard’s last season with the Raptors was in 2019, when he led them to their first and only championship.
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Source: sports.yahoo.com
