Superstar forward Kawhi Leonard will return to Toronto, seven years after leading the Raptors to their first NBA championship.
The NBA confirmed the move on Monday. The league approved the trade between the Los Angeles Clippers and Toronto Raptors.
Toronto will receive Leonard, a two-time NBA Finals MVP. Raptors players Brandon Ingram and Gradey Dick will move to Los Angeles.
The Clippers will also receive two first-round picks and two second-round picks. The deal includes a right to swap picks in 2027.
Raptors GM welcomes back Leonard
The teams submitted the trade to the NBA office two and a half months ago. However, they delayed the deal during the league’s investigation into the Clippers.
The NBA examined whether the Clippers had violated salary-cap rules involving Leonard’s compensation.
The investigation found that the Clippers helped Leonard avoid salary-cap rules. The club allegedly used agreements with corporate sponsors after Leonard joined the team in 2022.
According to the NBA, the Clippers encouraged companies to make agreements with Leonard. The club also offered them business opportunities.
The investigation also found that the Clippers paid personal expenses for Leonard and his representatives. The team did not report improper income opportunities sought by Leonard’s former business manager.
Raptors general manager and executive vice-president Bobby Webster welcomed Leonard back to Toronto.
The 35-year-old star brings leadership and experience to the team. Webster also highlighted Leonard’s talent and potential impact on Toronto and Canada.
Webster said Leonard can help the Raptors chase their second NBA championship.
Raptors back in Eastern Conference contention following Leonard deal
Leonard’s arrival could strengthen Toronto’s roster. He will join young stars Scottie Barnes, RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley.
Leonard has earned seven All-Star selections and seven All-NBA selections. He also produced the highest-scoring season of his career last year.
The forward averaged 27.9 points per game in 65 appearances for the Clippers.
Leonard remains one of the NBA’s top defensive players. He could also sign a contract extension with Toronto after the trade becomes official.
The Raptors and Clippers will meet in a preseason game on October 10. Leonard will face his former team in that game.
Ingram will also make his debut for the Clippers against his former team.
Toronto will visit the Clippers during the regular season on November 2. The Raptors will then host Los Angeles on January 1, 2027.
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