Teammate for Pöltl: Leonard returns to Raptors

The trade agreement bringing Kawhi Leonard back to Toronto is now official.

The Raptors and the Los Angeles Clippers received league approval on Monday to finalize the deal, which had already been agreed upon earlier this summer.

Ultimately, the trade was the same as agreed two and a half months ago: Leonard returns to the Raptors, while the Clippers receive Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, two first-round draft picks, two second-round picks, and a pick swap. In Toronto, he will join Jakob Pöltl.

“We are thrilled to welcome Kawhi back to Toronto,” said Raptors General Manager and Executive Vice President Bobby Webster. “His impact on our organization, our city, and our country is undeniable, and he embodies the fighting spirit and championship mentality that we value.

We believe his leadership, experience, and talent will help us as we continue to work towards our next championship.”

Leonard's Return Was Delayed

This is a big step for Toronto, which won the NBA championship in 2019 with Leonard as a leader and expects to contend for the title in the Eastern Conference.

The parties had put the agreement on hold in early July pending a decision on the NBA's investigation into whether the Clippers had circumvented salary cap rules regarding Leonard's compensation.

The NBA this week imposed massive penalties on the Clippers due to this investigation, including a one-year ban for owner Steve Ballmer, a $30 million fine, and the loss of five first-round draft picks.

Leonard, a two-time NBA Finals MVP, received a $700,000 fine as a result of this investigation. However, he was not suspended, and his contract was not invalidated, and the Raptors are obviously confident that his status will not be affected.

Leonard's Career So Far

Leonard (35) spent one season in Toronto, leading the Raptors to their sole title. He is coming off the highest-scoring season of his career, averaging 27.9 points in 65 games for the Clippers.

Leonard is a seven-time All-Star, a seven-time All-NBA team member, a two-time NBA champion (also winning with San Antonio in 2014), and is considered one of the best defensive players in the game. He is expected to sign a contract extension with the Raptors after the transfer is finalized.

Toronto will visit the Clippers on November 2 and host the Clippers on January 1. The teams will also face each other in a preseason game in Vancouver on October 10.