Kawhi Leonard is trying to force a trade to the Toronto Raptors. The 35-year-old NBA star wants to leave the Los Angeles Clippers.

What happened?

The Raptors have been in serious trade discussions with the Clippers, offering draft compensation and players like Brandon Ingram and Gradey Dick.

Why it matters for Kawhi Leonard

Leonard is set to command $50.3 million for the 2026-27 season. He is open to finding a team he would stay with past the upcoming season.

The Clippers have not committed to Leonard long-term this offseason. A source claims he is willing to strong-arm his way out of LA.

What comes next?

Should a trade to Toronto materialize, Leonard would become eligible to sign a two-year extension worth as much as $123.7 million. His representatives have informed interested teams that Toronto is the only franchise outside Los Angeles where he would sign a long-term extension.

Leonard played 65 games last season, averaging a career-high 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.9 steals. He shot 50.5% from the field and 38.7% from three-point range.

The injury issues are a concern. Before his resurgent 2025-26 campaign, he averaged only 44 games per season across his previous six years with the Clippers.

Leonard won his only championship with the Raptors. A trade back to the team could be a blockbuster return for the NBA star.

The trade talks between the two teams are still at a preliminary stage. RJ Barrett was rumored to be a part of the deal, but he is not likely to be included.

Multiple sources, including Shams Charania, claim that Leonard's representatives have informed interested teams that Toronto is the only franchise outside Los Angeles where he would sign a long-term extension.

This improves the Raptors' position, as most other teams risk trading for a player who is not willing to play for them beyond the upcoming season.

Leonard's history with the Raptors makes them a more confident suitor. He shares a championship win with the franchise.

The Clippers are not committed to Leonard long-term. This lack of commitment may be a factor in his desire to leave the team.

A trade to Toronto would be a significant move for Leonard. He would be returning to a team where he has a strong history.

The NBA star's future is uncertain. But one thing is clear: he is trying to force a trade to the Raptors.

The trade discussions are ongoing. The outcome is still unknown.

But for now, it seems that Kawhi Leonard is one step closer to a blockbuster return to the Toronto Raptors.