The Los Angeles Clippers are reportedly on the verge of sending two-time Finals MVP Kawhi Leonard back north. According to unconfirmed reports from ESPN’s Shams Charania on Tuesday, a blockbuster trade with the Toronto Raptors is nearing completion.
Toronto is prepared to empty the war room. The Clippers will receive All-Star forward Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, two first-round draft picks, a pick swap, and two second-round picks. The only remaining hurdle is getting both teams to approve medical evaluations for the incoming players.
Seven years ago, Leonard led Toronto to its first and only NBA championship. Now he is coming back. Leonard just turned 35 on Monday. He is entering the final guaranteed year of his contract at $50.3 million. He becomes eligible for a new extension starting July 6, setting up a high-stakes summer for a franchise chasing 2019 glory.
The move instantly reshapes both organizations. Toronto bolsters its frontcourt defense by pairing the veteran with rising star Scottie Barnes. The Raptors were willing to surrender a premier player like Ingram because Leonard has already indicated a strong willingness to sign an extension. That eliminates the risk of him bolting in unrestricted free agency next summer.
Los Angeles is pivoting hard. They are committing to a much younger competitive core. Ingram will slot in alongside recently acquired point guard Darius Garland and their 2026 No. 5 overall draft pick, Keaton Wagler.