Why Toronto Raptors are trading for Kawhi Leonard from Los Angeles Clippers

The Toronto Raptors are reuniting with Kawhi Leonard nearly seven years after he left in free agency.

According to ESPN's Shams Charania, the Raptors are sending Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, two first-round picks, a pick swap, and two second-round picks to the Clippers for Leonard.

"BREAKING: The Los Angeles Clippers are nearing deal sending Kawhi Leonard to the Toronto Raptors for Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, 2 first-round picks, 1 pick swap and 2 second-rounders, sources tell ESPN. A return to Canada for the Raptors champion and two-time Finals MVP," Charania reported.

Why Raptors are trading for Kawhi Leonard from Clippers

The Raptors were one of the biggest surprise teams in the NBA last season, as Darko Rajaković's squad was the No. 5 seed in the East after winning 46 games.

As a result, Toronto is maximizing its window of contention, and they believe bringing back Leonard could lead to another championship. The last time Leonard wore a Raptors uniform, he went on a legendary playoff run and brought the franchise their first title.

Though Leonard's health is always a concern, there's no denying that the two-time Finals MVP is one of the best players in the world when healthy. The 35-year-old averaged nearly 28 points per game in 65 games last season on efficient shooting numbers, and is still an elite defender.

In Toronto, Leaonrd will team up with young star Scottie Barnes, and the two will form arguably the best defensive forward duo in the sport. Barnes earned his second All-Star selection in 2025 and was also a second-team All-Defensive selection.

With the acquisition of Leonard, the Raptors now have one of the most balanced teams in the East. In the backcourt, Immanuel Quickley and RJ Barrett provide explosive scoring. We've already discussed the elite defensive duo of Leonard and Barnes, who will also contribute high-level production. At center, Jakob Poeltl is a double-double threat on any given night and is a savvy veteran.

Though the bench does need some work, Toronto has catapulted into a legitimate contender in the East with the addition of Leonard, who will look to repeat his success with the Raptors in a new era for the franchise.