n one of the biggest moves of the 2026 NBA offseason, the Toronto Raptors have reacquired Kawhi Leonard in a blockbuster trade with the Los Angeles Clippers, bringing back the superstar who led the franchise to its first NBA championship in 2019.
According to reports, the Raptors are sending Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, unprotected first-round picks in 2031 and 2033, a 2027 first-round pick swap, and second-round selections in 2030 and 2033 to the Clippers. The deal reunites Toronto with one of the greatest players in franchise history.
Leonard, who turned 35 this week, is coming off one of the best seasons of his career, averaging 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.9 steals while earning All-NBA Second Team honors. Despite past injury concerns, he played 65 games during the 2025-26 season, giving the Raptors confidence that he can once again lead a championship-caliber team.
Reports also indicate that Leonard intends to finish his career in Toronto, with the Raptors expected to sign him to a two-year maximum contract extension after the trade is finalized.
For Raptors fans, the return of “The Klaw” marks an emotional reunion seven years after his unforgettable championship run. The move signals that Toronto is once again committed to competing for an NBA title, adding a proven superstar and two-time NBA Finals MVP to a talented core led by Scottie Barnes.
