Raptors Face Kawhi Leonard Decision After Clippers Trade

Kawhi Leonard, Raptors Will Work on 2-Year Extension

Prior to this trade, Leonard's only season in Toronto was 2019. The organization acquired the California native from the San Antonio Spurs on an expiring contract the previous offseason, and he signed with the Clippers in the summer of 2019.

This time, neither party wants a one-and-done situation. Leonard and the Raptors will work on a contract extension, per NBA On Prime's Chris Haynes.

"Kawhi Leonard and Toronto Raptors will soon engage to structure out the terms on a two-year extension to lock up the future Hall of Famer through the 2028-29 season, sources say," he reported.

If Toronto gives Leonard around $50 million per year for 2027-28 and 2028-29, it will bank on him continuing his momentum from last season. The 35-year-old averaged a career-high 27.9 points on 50.5% shooting (38.7% 3-point) with 6.4 rebounds, 3.6 assists and 1.9 steals over 32.1 minutes (65 games). It was just the second time he played that contests since 2016-17.

Leonard will make $50.3 million next season, per Spotrac. The 6-foot-6, 225-pounder's salary is worth 30.48% of the salary cap.

The Raptors also must plan for a possible Collin Murray-Boyles extension, as he'll be eligible for one in 2028. The 2025 No. 9 overall pick averaged 8.5 points on 57.9% shooting (34% 3-point) with five rebounds, 1.9 assists and 1.8 stocks (steals and blocks) over 21.9 minutes (57 games) as a rookie.

Meanwhile, franchise player Scottie Barnes is signed through 2030 on an average annual value (AAV) of $44.8 million, so their payroll could approach the second salary cap apron if they re-sign Murray-Boyles to an expensive deal down the line. That threshold enforces several team-building restrictions, per NBC Sports.