Kawhi Leonard’s Return Boosts Raptors’ Championship Hopes

On Tuesday, the Toronto Raptors made headlines by trading for Kawhi Leonard. This move marks the return of a franchise legend. The Raptors traded Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, unprotected first-round picks in 2031 and 2033, second-round picks in 2030 and 2033, and a 2027 first-round swap. It’s a significant investment for a 35-year-old player, but Leonard’s value to Toronto is undeniable.

Reports indicated that Leonard initially preferred to stay with the Los Angeles Clippers. However, the Clippers hesitated to offer him a long-term deal. Leonard is on an expiring contract set to earn $50.3 million next season. In contrast, the Raptors plan to extend Leonard’s contract for two more years, ensuring he remains in Toronto until the 2028-29 season. Surprisingly, Leonard is eager to return to Toronto, a stark change from his previous departure seven years ago.

Leonard left an indelible mark on the Raptors’ history. In the 2019 Eastern Conference semifinals, he made an unforgettable shot against the Philadelphia 76ers. With the score tied and 4.2 seconds left in Game 7, Leonard hit a corner fadeaway over Joel Embiid. The ball bounced off the rim four times before scoring, marking the first buzzer-beater game-winner in NBA playoff history.

Kawhi Leonard Returns to Toronto in Blockbuster Raptors-Clippers Trade

That postseason, Leonard averaged 30.5 points, 9.1 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 1.7 steals in 24 playoff games. His performance led the Raptors to their first NBA championship, earning him the Finals MVP award. Leonard became the 12th player to win Finals MVP with multiple teams, previously winning in 2014 with the San Antonio Spurs. His extraordinary playoff run is still celebrated by Raptors fans.

Now back in Toronto, Leonard will join a young team featuring two-time All-Star Scottie Barnes, and RJ Barrett, a Toronto native who averaged 24.1 points per game in last year’s playoffs. The Raptors also have promising rookie Collin Murray Boyles, sharpshooter Ja’Kobe Walter, and defensive expert Jamal Shead. This trade instantly turned the Raptors into Eastern Conference contenders.

There is speculation about another potential addition that could enhance the Raptors’ story: signing Kyle Lowry. Earlier, Lowry expressed his desire to “sign a one-day contract and retire as a Raptor.” He played only 14 games with the 76ers last season. While many believe he will retire, Lowry has stated he hasn’t decided yet. If he chooses not to retire, he might sign a veteran minimum deal to rejoin Leonard and the Raptors. Lowry wouldn’t play extensive minutes as he did in 2019. Instead, he’d serve as a veteran mentor familiar with the organization and capable of guiding the team alongside Leonard.