The Toronto Raptors are reportedly in serious discussions to acquire Kawhi Leonard from the LA Clippers. This potential trade would mark another significant move for the Raptors, who previously acquired Leonard in a similar high-stakes trade eight years ago.
According to reports, the proposed deal would send Leonard to Toronto in exchange for Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, two unprotected first-round picks, one pick swap, and two second-round picks. The Raptors are aiming to elevate their team by bringing in Leonard, who is in his final season before free agency.
Leonard’s impact and Raptors’ offensive needs
At 34 years old, Leonard remains a highly impactful player when available. Last season, he averaged a career-high 27.9 points per game, demonstrating his offensive capabilities. His efficiency, including making 40.5% of his 3-pointers since returning from an ACL tear that sidelined him for the entire 2021-22 season, places him among the league’s elite.
Leonard’s defensive prowess is also notable; he averaged 1.9 steals per game last season, a top-five mark in the league. His on/off differential in Los Angeles consistently placed him among the league leaders, indicating his significant positive influence on team performance.
The Raptors’ top four scorers last season—Ingram, RJ Barrett, Scottie Barnes, and Immanuel Quickley—all had similar efficiency, with true shooting percentages around the league average. This contributed to Toronto finishing 15th in offensive rating. The team’s offensive rating in the first round of the postseason was 111.9, which was the lowest among Cleveland’s three playoff opponents.
Leonard is expected to provide a substantial offensive upgrade for the Raptors, potentially becoming the team’s primary scorer. His addition could also bolster the team’s defence, forming a strong trio with Barnes and Collin Murray-Boyles.
Trade context and future flexibility
The reported cost for Leonard in this potential trade is higher than the previous acquisition in 2018, which involved only one first-round pick. This reflects a shift in the market for superstar trades, where multiple unprotected picks and swaps are now common.
Despite the increased cost, the Raptors are not reportedly giving up all their future draft capital. Trading control of only three of their future first-rounders means they retain flexibility for further team enhancements. Leonard’s reported desire to sign an extension with Toronto, but not with other teams outside Los Angeles, may have influenced the trade discussions.
The Clippers, who have not won a playoff series since 2021, are also looking to navigate their future. The discussions about trading Leonard became public knowledge on Thursday, with Toronto’s interest in reacquiring the player who led them to their only championship in 2019 being a key factor.
The Raptors’ current core recently reached the postseason for the first time in four years. The team’s defence was strong last season, finishing fifth in defensive rating. This potential trade aims to provide the offensive firepower needed to complement their defensive strengths and contend for a title once again.
The proposed deal, if finalized, would send Leonard to Toronto in exchange for Ingram, Dick, two unprotected first-round picks, one pick swap, and two second-round picks, according to reports on June 29.
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Source: tsn.ca
