With Leonard trade finally official, Raptors can dream big
The Kawhi Leonard trade to the Toronto Raptors has finally been made official after a 76-day delay, following an NBA investigation into alleged salary cap circumvention by the Los Angeles Clippers. The deal sends Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, and draft capital to the Clippers, with Leonard returning to the Raptors, the team he led to the 2019 championship. Raptors general manager Bobby Webster expressed excitement about Leonard's return and his potential to help the team pursue another championship.
Why it matters
This trade significantly impacts the Toronto Raptors' championship aspirations and reshapes the competitive landscape of the NBA. It also concludes a long-standing investigation, highlighting the league's efforts to maintain fair play and salary cap integrity.
TORONTO – That sound you heard just before 3:00 p.m. ET on Monday was a team’s fan base – and at least a few people inside the organization – letting out a collective sigh of relief. Seventy-six days after it was agreed to in principle, 67 days after it was paused, and 12 days after the NBA wrapped the investigation that cleared the way for its completion, the Kawhi Leonard trade to the Toronto Raptors finally became official. The deal went through as initially constructed, with Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick and draft capital (unprotected first-round picks in 2031 and 2033, a pick swap, and two second rounders) heading to the Los Angeles Clippers, and Leonard returning to the Raptors, the team he led to the 2019 championship. “We’re thrilled to welcome Kawhi back to Toronto,” Raptors general manager Bobby Webster said in the team’s Monday night press release.
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