The Future of Kawhi Leonard: Trade, Extend or Seek a New Adventure?
Since the departure of Kawhi Leonard, fans and analysts have been debating whether the Toronto Raptors will trade him, extend their offer, or see him seek a new team in free agency. This article aims to dissect the possibilities and provide insights into the potential outcomes.
Scenarios for Kawhi Leonard's Future
Based on various factors, including team dynamics, health, and personal aspirations, there are a few key scenarios to consider for Kawhi Leonard's future:
Scenario 1: Stay and Succeed with Toronto
If Kawhi gets along well with his teammates, including Norman Powell, OG Anunoby, and Greg Poole, and the Raptors start off the season strongly, there is a good chance that he might choose to extend his contract with the team. If the Raptors are competitive and have a good chance of making a deep playoff run, Kawhi would be less likely to accept a trade offer or leave via free agency.
Why the Raptors: - Beautiful city (except for the winter) - Good potential for wins and championships - Strong young team - Presence of experienced guards like Lane Stephenson
Scenario 2: Trade Before the Deadline
If Kawhi does not play at all, the Raptors would likely trade him to another team. This move would allow them to get something in return, such as draft picks or young talent, instead of losing him for nothing.
When to Trade: - Before the All-Star break (February) - Avoiding a free agency loss in the summer
Scenario 3: Free Agency and Los Angeles Lakers
Would Kawhi Leonard sign with the Lakers or explore other free agency options? Several factors could influence his decision:
Key Considerations: - Health of Kawhi Leonard - Soft or hardening narrative about staying in Toronto - Being "The Big Dog" on a perennial contender vs. being second fiddle
Predictions and Potential Outcomes
Based on current analysis and trends, it is highly likely that Kawhi Leonard will:
Extend with Toronto
With a strong start to the season and no sign of significant health issues, it is possible that the Raptors will sign Kawhi to a long-term contract, making him an even more valuable asset to the team.
Trade During the Season
However, if Kawhi does not play, the team might decide to trade him before the All-Star break or at the mid-season trade deadline, ensuring they do not lose him for free.
Free Agency and Lakers
While many believe Kawhi will end up in LA, he has already mentioned he will not be back in Toronto, suggesting he may still feel comfortable with the Raptors or opt to stay in southern Ontario.
Final Thoughts: The ultimate decision hinges on Kawhi's final year in a Toronto Raptors jersey and the Raptors' success in the early part of the season. The Spurs, for their part, should prioritize trading Kawhi now before the 2019-2020 season, to avoid losing significant money on the maximum contract he turned down. This would allow the Spurs to move forward and rebuild for the future with the savings from the contract rejection.