Drake Responds to Kawhi Leonard Rumors in New IG Photo amid Raptors Trade Buzz

Toronto Raptors superfan Drake is excited to see Kawhi Leonard back in his city.

The rapper posted an Instagram photo with the former Los Angeles Clippers star, captioning the story "So is it kawhiYZ szn again," followed by several eyeball emojis.

Drake seemingly had the inside scoop on Leonard. Soon after his Instagram post, ESPN's Shams Charania reported that the Clippers and Raptors are nearing a deal to send Leonard to Toronto in return for Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick and a plethora of picks.

Leonard was traded to the Raptors ahead of the 2018-19 campaign and put together one of the best seasons of his career, which ultimately ended with Toronto's first championship and Leonard's second Finals MVP.

But Leonard quickly left Canada, signing with the Clippers in free agency a month after winning a title.

While Leonard had no interest in staying in Toronto in 2019, he's reportedly on board with sticking around this time.

NBA insider Jake Fischer noted last week that the Raptors and San Antonio Spurs were the only teams Leonard would consider signing a long-term deal with if he were traded.

Leonard is entering the final year of a three-year, $149 million deal and will have a $50.3 million cap hit in 2026-27.

Leonard is likely past his apex at this point, but he put together a tremendous 2025-26 campaign, averaging 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, 3.6 assists and 1.9 steals per game.

If he can keep playing at that level this season, he could be the missing piece for the Raptors as they try to put together a championship-caliber roster.