The LA Clippers are holding firm on Kawhi Leonard, rejecting trade inquiries as the NBA offseason commences. The team, fresh off drafting Keaton Wagler, has received calls about Leonard but maintains its plan to keep him as a central figure. This stance aligns with owner Steve Ballmer and executive Lawrence Frank’s history of aggressive roster building aimed at contention, not rebuilding.
Teams, including the Toronto Raptors and Dallas Mavericks, have approached the Clippers regarding Leonard’s availability. However, sources report these early offers have been largely unimpressive. The Raptors’ proposal, centered on Brandon Ingram, was previously rejected by Los Angeles in 2025 and holds little new appeal. The Clippers would likely seek assets such as Collin Murray-Boyles, who has reportedly been excluded from Toronto’s discussions. Similarly, Dallas’s reported package, involving PJ Washington and Klay Thompson, has not been deemed notable. The Clippers would have interest in a player like Dereck Lively II, a young center with defensive potential, should he be healthy after recent foot surgeries.
Leonard, who enters the final year of a three-year deal worth $50.3 million, is eligible for a two-year, $126 million contract extension. While both sides are reportedly interested in a long-term commitment, discussions on specific figures are ongoing. Leonard’s goal remains to compete for a championship, a sentiment that fuels speculation given the Clippers’ recent playoff record, exiting the first round three times and missing the postseason twice in the last five years. The organisation’s resolve to retain Leonard would only waver if he requested a move or if an overwhelming offer, featuring multiple first-round picks and a young, emerging talent, materialized. Thus far, offers have been “underwhelming” and “one-sided,” as described by sources, with the Clippers having no desire to initiate trade talks.
