After more than two months of deliberation, the high-profile trade involving Kawhi Leonard moving from the Los Angeles Clippers back to the Toronto Raptors was officially completed yesterday. In return for the player who led them to their sole championship in 2019 before departing to L.A. after just one season, the Raptors traded all-star forward Brandon Ingram, guard Gradey Dick, two unprotected first-round draft picks, a first-round pick swap, and two second-round picks.
The delay in finalizing the trade was due to the NBA’s probe into a salary-cap violation scheme involving Leonard and the Clippers, which was initially disclosed on sports journalist Pablo Torre’s podcast in September 2025. Subsequently, Torre and his team uncovered evidence revealing that the Clippers had funneled money to Leonard through undisclosed sponsorship agreements with team-affiliated companies, such as a $28 million deal with Aspiration. This led to significant fines and penalties for the Clippers, including a $30 million fine, loss of five first-round draft picks, and suspensions for top executives.
Following Clippers owner Steve Ballmer’s acceptance of the NBA’s sanctions, the trade with the Raptors was able to proceed. Kawhi Leonard’s return has been met with enthusiasm from Raptors fans, eager to see the 2019 Finals MVP revitalize the team’s fortunes. However, concerns linger about Leonard’s age, injury history, and the hefty contract extension he is expected to sign.
While the trade presents an opportunity for the Raptors to reacquire a player who previously brought them success, doubts remain about Kawhi’s current form and the impact of the deal. The moral implications of Leonard’s involvement in the salary-cap circumvention issue also raise questions about his reputation among NBA fans. As the Raptors welcome back their prodigal star, the long-term effects of the trade and Leonard’s performance will be closely watched.