Leonard set to have significant impact in expected return to Raptors

LA Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard. Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images

Kawhi Leonard set to have significant impact in expected return to Raptors

By Vanessa Serrao | Last updated Jun 30, 2026 6:39 PM ET

The Toronto Raptors are bolstering their roster by adding a familiar face.

The Raptors are reportedly finalizing a deal with the Los Angeles Clippers that would see them acquire Kawhi Leonard, a former star for the franchise and a key part of their 2019 championship.

In 2019 with the Raptors, Leonard was an NBA champion, Finals MVP and an All-Star. He also averaged 30.5 points per game in the playoffs and provided the Raptors with their first title in franchise history.

The 35-year-old wants to retire with the Raptors organization once his career comes to an end, according to ESPN insider Shams Charania.

The move inevitably makes the Eastern Conference that much more competitive, and Leonard will be returning to a team that went from 26th to 15th in offensive rating with two-time NBA All-Star and forward Brandon Ingram.

Kawhi Leonard with Raptors in 2019:

NBA Champion
Finals MVP
All-Star
Second Team All-NBA
Second Team All-Defense

Averaged 30.5 PPG in playoffs en route to the first title in franchise history. pic.twitter.com/7WZ46InADo
— Underdog NBA (@UnderdogNBA) June 30, 2026

How Kawhi Leonard will transform the Raptors in his return

NBA analyst Kendrick Perkins believes that the hype is legit with Leonard returning to the Raptors.

"Everytime (Kawhi Leonard) stepped on the floor, one could argue that he was the best player on the floor," Perkins said. "One could argue that he is still the best two-way player in the game."

Leonard is coming off a stellar season with the Clippers where he averaged a career-high 27.9 points per game, as well as 6.4 rebounds, and 1.9 steals. His return to the Raptors will provide them with a trustworthy No. 1 scoring athlete who's proven to be clutch in late-game performances.

Having Leonard rejoin and play alongside Scottie Barnes provides the team with potentially one of the most powerful and dynamic defensive pairings in the NBA. Leonard will also boost the young core on the Raptors with his veteran presence and championship pedigree.

Leonard is the only player in Raptors history who has averaged at least 26 points and seven rebounds per game in a season. All in all, the trade showcases that the Raptors mean business and are ready to contend for the upcoming NBA season in 2026-2027.

Vanessa Serrao

Serrao is a freelance baseball writer who has covered all MLB teams, with particular expertise on the Toronto Blue Jays. She is a member of the Internet Baseball Writers Association of America.

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