Kawhi Leonard is headed back to Toronto.
The Raptors and Clippers are reportedly nearing a deal to send the 2019 finals MVP back to Toronto in exchange for Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, and five future draft picks.
Let’s dive into the exact details of the trade, who came out on top, and what it means for both franchises moving forward.
Toronto Raptors’ Grade
GRADE: A
In 2019, Kawhi Leonard led the Toronto Raptors to their first championship in franchise history. Averaging 30.5 points and 9.1 rebounds across 24 games and taking down the Golden State Warriors in the finals, Leonard was a man on a mission. Now, seven years later, he is set to reunite with his former team and help bring them back to contention.
Despite just turning 35, Leonard is coming off the best scoring season of his career. He averaged 27.9 points, n 50.5% from the field, and 38.7% from downtown. Leonard also played in 65 regular-season games, was named to the All-Star team, and earned All-NBA second-team honors.
Leonard is joining a Raptors unit desperately in need of a number-one scoring option. Scottie Barnes has developed into a star in his role, while RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley are both excellent complementary pieces. Ultimately, though, Leonard brings another level of scoring and reliability that’s expected to take Toronto into the next tier.
Taking everything into account, this is a massive win for the Raptors. If Leonard manages to stay healthy in his 15th NBA season and beyond, Toronto should be viewed as a legitimate contender in the Eastern Conference.
Los Angeles Clippers’ Grade
- Receive: F Brandon Ingram
- Receive: G/F Gradey Dick
- Receive: 2 first-round picks, 1 pick swap, and 2 second-rounders