Kawhi Leonard is making headlines as he is one step closer to returning to the Toronto Raptors. On Monday, the Los Angeles Clippers and the Raptors reached an agreement on a trade that would send Leonard back to Toronto. In exchange, the Clippers will receive Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, two unprotected first-round picks, a first-round pick swap, and two second-round picks. The trade, however, is pending approval from the NBA, as the trade call has yet to be finalized.
According to multiple reports, including one from Law Murray of The Athletic, the details of the draft compensation remain intact. The unprotected first-round picks that Toronto will send to Los Angeles are set for the years 2031 and 2033. Additionally, the pick swap is scheduled for 2027, while the second-round picks are for 2030 and 2033.
In a noteworthy development, Sportsnet's Blake Murphy reported that Leonard has decided to waive his entire 15 percent trade bonus. This decision is significant for the Raptors, as it will allow them to avoid expanding the deal amidst their hard cap situation at the first-apron line as they head into the upcoming season.
Initially, the Raptors had placed the proposed trade on hold back in July while awaiting the conclusion of the NBA's investigation into the Clippers regarding salary-cap circumvention. Earlier this month, the league announced that it had stripped the Clippers of five future first-round picks spanning from 2029 to 2033 and imposed a $30 million fine on the team. This ruling came as a result of an independent investigation that found a pattern of misconduct and multiple serious violations of league rules.
As part of the league's findings, Clippers owner Steve Ballmer, along with president of business operations Gillian Zucker, received a one-year suspension, while president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank was suspended for six months. Although Ballmer expressed "disagreements" concerning the NBA's ruling, he ultimately accepted the league's penalties, quelling speculation that he might pursue external legal action.
Additionally, Leonard himself will incur a $700,000 fee due to his connection to the violations; however, he will not face suspension, nor will his contract be revoked.
The 35-year-old forward had an impressive season with the Clippers, averaging 27.9 points, 6.3 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 1.9 steals, and 0.4 blocks per game last season. A seven-time All-Star, Leonard has been recognized as a seven-time All-NBA selection and is a two-time NBA champion. He is notably remembered for his pivotal role in the Raptors' 2018-19 championship run.
This trade marks a significant milestone for both the Raptors, who aim to bolster their roster, and the Clippers, who aim to restructure following their recent penalties. As the official approval from the NBA is awaited, fans eagerly anticipate Leonard's return to Toronto and the impact it may have on the upcoming season.
