Kawhi Leonard’s Return to the Toronto Raptors

The Toronto Raptors have made headlines with a significant trade to bring back Kawhi Leonard, a key figure in the franchise’s history. The deal involved sending Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, and several picks to the Los Angeles Clippers. The Raptors are parting with unprotected first-round picks in 2031 and 2033 and second-round picks in 2030 and 2033. They also agreed to a 2027 first-round swap.

Despite Leonard’s age at 35, the Raptors see immense value in this acquisition. Reports suggested he preferred to stay with the Clippers, but the organization hesitated to secure a long-term commitment. Leonard’s current contract would earn him $50.3 million next season. However, Toronto is ready to offer a two-year extension to keep him in the city until the 2028-29 season.

Leonard’s willingness to return to Toronto is noteworthy, considering his previous departure from the team. His tenure with the Raptors left a lasting impact. A defining moment came during the 2019 Eastern Conference semifinals. With the score tied and only 4.2 seconds on the clock in Game 7 against the Philadelphia 76ers, Leonard sank a memorable buzzer-beater. This shot was the first of its kind in a Game 7 in NBA playoff history.

During that postseason, Leonard averaged 30.5 points, 9.1 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 1.7 steals over 24 playoff games. These efforts led to the Raptors gaining their first NBA championship, earning Leonard the Finals MVP title. This achievement marked him as one of the few players to win Finals MVP with multiple teams, having previously won with the San Antonio Spurs in 2014.

Leonard’s return also signals a new chapter for the Raptors. He will join forces with Scottie Barnes, a two-time All-Star, and RJ Barrett, a former No. 3 overall pick and local talent. Barrett stood out in the playoffs last year, averaging 24.1 points per game. Additionally, promising rookie Collin Murray Boyles remains part of the roster, along with sharpshooter Ja’Kobe Walter and defensive expert Jamal Shead.

The trade for Leonard instantly positions the Raptors as contenders in the Eastern Conference. Yet, there is another potential storyline to enhance this narrative: signing Kyle Lowry. Lowry has expressed a desire to “sign a one-day contract and retire as a Raptor,” emphasizing that his plans have not changed. Although his performance with the 76ers saw limited action, averaging 1.2 points over 14 games, there’s speculation about his retirement plans.

Should Lowry choose not to retire, he could sign a veteran minimum contract with the Raptors. His return would not aim at heavy playtime but rather to lend experienced counsel. His knowledge of the organization, city, fanbase, and championship-winning strategies could be invaluable, especially with Leonard back in the lineup.