The Dallas Mavericks and LA Clippers are actively negotiating a blockbuster trade for two-time NBA Finals MVP Kawhi Leonard. The proposed deal framework sends Klay Thompson, P.J. Washington, and future draft compensation to Los Angeles.
Leonard turns 35 this week and is entering the final year of a three-year, $149.5 million extension. He is scheduled to earn just over $50 million. He posted one of his healthiest campaigns in recent years during the 2025-26 season. Leonard played 65 games, recording his highest appearance total since the 2016-17 season.
The veteran wing averaged 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.9 steals. He shot 50.5% from the field. Dallas executive Masai Ujiri is attempting to pair Leonard and Kyrie Irving with 19-year-old franchise cornerstone Cooper Flagg.
Flagg averaged 21.0 points and 6.7 rebounds during his standout rookie year. Ujiri previously orchestrated the 2019 blockbuster trade that brought Leonard to the Toronto Raptors for their championship run. A completed trade would serve as a high-profile reunion between the executive and the star player.
Executing the trade presents immediate logistical hurdles. Dallas faces severely depleted draft capital and does not own its first-round picks outright until 2031. The Toronto Raptors are also exploring trade packages for Leonard this offseason.