Kawhi Leonard trade chatter resurfaces after insider’s blunt prediction

The Clippers may have landed a potential franchise cornerstone on draft night, but the biggest question hanging over the organization still revolves around Kawhi Leonard.

According to NBA insider Chris Haynes, the Clippers are expected to explore trading Leonard if the two sides cannot reach an agreement on a contract extension this offseason.

“If an extension is not worked out, I expect the Clippers look to move Kawhi,” Haynes said on NBA TV. “I don’t expect that he will stay and play on an expiring deal.”

Leonard is entering the final season of the three-year, $149.5 million contract he signed in January 2024 and is set to earn $50.3 million next season. While extension talks have reportedly not yet begun, Haynes noted that discussions are expected to take place after the draft, giving the Clippers an opportunity to outline their long-term vision.

That vision became much clearer Tuesday night.

Thanks to the top-four protected first-round pick acquired from the Pacers in the Ivica Zubac trade, the Clippers landed the No. 5 overall selection and used it on former Illinois star Keaton Wagler.

Combined with an emerging young core that already includes Darius Garland, the Clippers suddenly have more flexibility than they have enjoyed in years.

The selection also gives the organization leverage. Rather than feeling pressured to extend Leonard at any cost, the Clippers now have a potential succession plan if negotiations become complicated.

Despite the growing speculation, any potential trade would still require the Clippers to change course. According to ESPN, owner Steve Ballmer has remained firmly opposed to moving Leonard, even turning away interest from teams such as the Warriors before the trade deadline while continuing to build around the two-time Finals MVP.

Leonard, however, strengthened his bargaining position with one of the best seasons of his career. He averaged 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds and 3.6 assists while appearing in 65 games and earning All-NBA Second Team honors.

If Balmer decides to make him available, there should be no shortage of interest.

Recent reports have linked Leonard to the Heat, with NBA insider Brandon Robinson reporting that the veteran forward would like to play in South Beach. At the same time, reports from The Athletic indicated Leonard has little interest in joining the Pistons despite speculation connecting the two sides.

The biggest obstacle remains Leonard’s age and injury history. He turns 35 this summer and has missed at least 15 games in each of the last four seasons.

Still, elite two-way wings are among the league’s most valuable commodities. If extension talks stall, the Clippers could face a difficult choice: continue building around Leonard or cash in while his value remains high and accelerate the franchise’s next era.

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