The Return of a Champion
The Toronto Raptors have finally completed a massive trade to bring Kawhi Leonard back to Canada. The deal with the LA Clippers was delayed for months while the NBA investigated salary cap circumvention allegations. Now that the league has finished its investigation, which ended in a 700,000 dollar fine for Leonard, the trade is official.
Toronto sent Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, two unprotected first round picks, a first round pick swap, and two second round picks to Los Angeles. In return, they get the seven time All Star who led them to their only NBA title in 2019.
Moving On From Ingram
Acquiring Leonard allows Toronto to move on from Brandon Ingram. The Raptors previously traded for Ingram and signed him to a big contract, but he struggled in the 2026 playoffs. Ingram is owed 40 million dollars for the 2026 to 2027 season and 41.9 million dollars the following year.
With Leonard on board, the Raptors get a major upgrade on both ends of the floor. He joins a team that won 46 games last season and snapped a three year playoff drought. Toronto is now looking to win its first postseason series since 2020. To help the depth, the front office also added Kyle Anderson and Andre Jackson Jr., while retaining Jamal Shead.
The Defensive Core
Leonard will join forces with rising star Scottie Barnes. The 24 year old had a stellar season last year, earning an All Defensive team selection. In the playoffs against the Cleveland Cavaliers, Barnes averaged 24.1 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 8.6 assists per game.
Another key player for Toronto is forward Collin Murray Boyles. He averaged 8.5 points per game as a rookie. His development on defense alongside Barnes and Leonard could determine how far this team can go. If Murray Boyles can step up as a smallball center, Toronto will have a scary defensive lineup.
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