Kawhi Leonard Trade Gains Momentum as Raptors Push Deal

Kawhi Leonard is at the center of a trade buzz on June 30, 2024, as the Los Angeles Clippers and Toronto Raptors exchange serious offers to bring the seven‑time All‑Star back to Canada. The Clippers have not extended Leonard’s contract, leaving him with a $50 million salary next season and a single year remaining on his deal.

The rumor mill ignited after Clippers officials declined to present a two‑year, $125 million extension to Leonard. Sources say his representatives told interested clubs that Leonard would only consider a new deal with Toronto if Los Angeles walked away. That condition gave the Raptors a negotiating edge, according to Chris Haynes of The Athletic, who noted the talks “gathered momentum” after the Clippers’ refusal.

Toronto sees Leonard as a catalyst to revive Eastern Conference contention. Since his 2019 championship exit, the Raptors have captured just one playoff series and posted a 40‑36 record in the 2025‑26 season before falling to the Cleveland Cavaliers in the first round. Leonard’s 2019 Finals performance-averaging 28.5 points and earning Finals MVP-remains the franchise’s high point. Re‑adding him could restore the winning culture that propelled the team to its lone title.

Leonard finished the 2023‑24 campaign with a career‑high 27.9 points per game, appearing in 65 games-only his second season since 2018‑19 with more than 60 appearances. He also earned All‑NBA Second Team honors and placed seventh in MVP voting. Despite his individual success, the Clippers missed the playoffs, losing in the Play‑In Tournament to the Golden State Warriors after a 42‑40 regular‑season record.

Shams Charania confirmed on X that talks are “continuing” and that both sides remain motivated. He added that the next few hours and the following day will be critical as the two franchises hash out details. If Toronto’s initial offer fell short, the Clippers may revisit the numbers, but the prevailing sentiment suggests Leonard’s tenure in Los Angeles is nearing its end. A confirmed trade would likely be announced before the start of free agency on July 1.

A Leonard return to Toronto would reshape the Eastern Conference power balance, giving the Raptors a proven scorer and defender to build around. For the Clippers, losing Leonard could free up cap space but also remove a marquee name, forcing them to accelerate their rebuild. Fans and analysts alike will watch the negotiations closely, as the outcome could set the tone for the upcoming NBA season.