The Toronto Raptors are officially moving forward with the blockbuster Kawhi Leonard trade, shaking off an earlier NBA investigation that had put the deal on ice. After weeks of uncertainty, the league drama is apparently wrapped up, meaning the deal that everyone has been waiting for is finally happening. This isn’t just about a star coming back; it’s about a team showing they’re ready to make a huge splash, no matter the cost.
Drama Resolved, Blockbuster Trade Back On Track
Man, that situation was wild! The trade for Kawhi Leonard, agreed to earlier in the summer, got put on hold because the Clippers and Leonard were under investigation for potential improper benefits. It was a whole mess, but thankfully, that investigation was resolved earlier this week, clearing the path forward. ESPN’s Shams Charania is reporting that “the full expectation around the Raptors and around Kawhi Leonard and the league is that this trade will be going through in the next few days.” It sounds like the waiting game is almost over. Toronto knows what Kawhi can do, he brought them an NBA championship before, and they are absolutely hungry for that same success this season in what everyone knows is a jam-packed Eastern Conference.
The Price Is STEEP, But Toronto’s Also Beefing Up Depth
So, what’s the actual cost of getting a two-way superstar like Leonard back? NBA reporter Evan Sidery dropped the full haul, and it’s significant. The Raptors are sending draft capital to the Clippers, alongside Brandon Ingram and Gradey Dick. In return, the Clippers are getting a 2027 swap, plus a 2031 and 2033 unprotected first-round picks, and 2030 and 2033 second-round picks. That’s a serious commitment of future assets, especially those unprotected firsts, telling you exactly how much Toronto wants to win now. But they aren’t just betting on Kawhi alone. Last week, the Raptors also signed centre Trey Jemison III to a two-way contract. Jemison, a 6-foot-10, 270-pound big man, has some pro experience, having played 13 games with New York last season and averaging 1.0 points and 1.4 rebounds. He also put up 8.3 points and 8.6 rebounds in 31 G League games for the Westchester Knicks. He’s been around, playing for the Memphis Grizzlies and Birmingham Squadron, and he’ll be a key piece for frontcourt depth and continued development.
With Kawhi seemingly just days away from officially being back in the fold and a new big man providing some bench muscle, Toronto is clearly ready to make some serious noise in that wild Eastern Conference.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by The Sporting News.
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