[Stein] Sources close to the situation say that there are only two other teams that Kawhi Leonard would consider signing an extension with: Toronto and San Antonio. Sources insist that the Raptors have genuine interest in bringing Leonard back to Canada.
While the LA Clippers are undeniably determined to keep hold of Kawhi Leonard — and with Leonard’s clear first choice known to be staying with them in his beloved Southern California — league sources say that Toronto has registered interest in trying to re-acquire the engine of the lone championship team in franchise history should Leonard become truly available.
And one source briefed on the subject insisted Thursday — after news of Ball’s impending trade to Minnesota broke — that the Raptors would have interest in trying to lure The Klaw back to Canada “regardless of LaMelo.”
Leonard, who turns 35 on Monday, has one season left on his current contract at $50.3 million. His preference, again, is to stay in his native Southern California with the same franchise he’s played for since the 2019-20 season.
Sources close to the situation tell The Stein Line that, when it comes to potential trade talks, there are only two other teams that Leonard would consider signing an extension with: The two teams he played for before becoming a Clipper.
Toronto and San Antonio.
It is not yet clear how the Spurs would receive the idea of a reunion with Leonard given the manner in which they are flourishing in the Victor Wembanyama Era … on top of the sides infamously messy parting in the summer of 2018.
Yet sources insist that the Raptors have genuine interest in bringing Leonard back to Canada.