Kawhi Leonard Returns to Toronto Raptors in Controversial Trade with Clippers

Seven years after leading the Toronto Raptors to their historic NBA championship, Kawhi Leonard has been traded back to the Raptors from the Los Angeles Clippers in a deal finalized on July 1, 2026. Leonard, 35, who is in the final year of his current contract ending in 2027, posted a career-best offensive season last year, averaging 27.9 points per game. The trade sent Brandon Ingram, Grady Dick, two first-round draft picks (2031, 2033), a first-round pick swap in 2027, and two second-round picks (2030, 2033) from Toronto to the Clippers.

The trade has sparked divided opinions, especially in Toronto, due to Leonard's age and injury history. CBS rated the Raptors' move a C+, highlighting the significant medical risks and the high cost of the trade, warning that extending Leonard's contract could further strain the team. Conversely, some analysts praised the acquisition: Ball Don't Stop suggested the Raptors now have a strong chance to compete seriously in the Eastern Conference with Leonard leading a young, athletic squad. The Athletic's Espandiar Bahani called Leonard "one of the best players in the NBA," affirming the necessity of the trade for Toronto. ESPN analyst Richard Jefferson expressed cautious optimism, saying the Raptors could contend for the Eastern title but are not yet NBA championship favorites.

Meanwhile, CBS gave the Clippers an A+ for the trade, noting they capitalized on Leonard's peak value before his medical risks could diminish it. The Clippers received valuable assets and draft picks, including a first-round pick swap in 2027 now held by the Oklahoma City Thunder, who stand to benefit from Leonard's departure. The trade is seen as a pivotal moment for both franchises heading into the new NBA season.