After days of speculation, the Los Angeles Clippers and Toronto Raptors have finalized a deal involving All-Star forward Kawhi Leonard.
Leonard, 34, averaged 27.9 points and 6.3 rebounds per game for the Clippers this past season. The Detroit Pistons were mentioned as a potential suitor for him, but he wasn't interested in making the Motor City his long-term home. A return to Toronto, however, was appealing to him.
According to ESPN's Shams Charania, the Clippers are sending Leonard to the Raptors in exchange for Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, two first-round picks, a pick swap and two second-rounders.
Leonard is on an expiring contract, but initial reports state that he's open to signing an extension with the Raptors. That's why they were willing to send such an enticing offer to the Clippers.
Speaking of what's heading to Los Angele in this trade, IIngram is coming off a season where he averaged 21.5 points per game. There's a good chance he'll be even more productive for the Clippers.
Second stop in Toronto.
The Raptors acquired Leonard prior to the start of the 2018-19 season and ended up winning the NBA Finals in large part because of him. He was named Finals MVP after averaging 28.5 points per game against the Golden State Warriors.
Although the Raptors aren't built to win the Finals at this moment, Leonard's presence should make them a much more formidable team in the playoffs.
As for the Clippers, they're officially entering a new era that doesn't feature a lot of star power.
