Latest Kawhi Rumors on Raptors Contract Talks and Leonard's New Agent After Clippers Trade

After being traded from the Los Angeles Clippers to the Toronto Raptors last week, star forward Kawhi Leonard is planning on sticking around for a while.

Per ESPN's Shams Charania, Leonard and the Raptors "are expected to start" discussions on a contract extension this week, and the 35-year-old hired Harrison Gaines, Esq. of SLASH Sports as his new agent to represent him in negotiations.

Charania noted that the change in representation "is a major shift for Leonard, who previously had Mitch Frankel and his uncle and business adviser Dennis Robertson handle all of his affairs." Gaines reportedly "has worked closely" with the seven-time All-Star over the past year as his business attorney.

Leonard has one season and $50.3 million remaining on the three-year contract extension he signed with the Clippers in 2024. NBA insider Jake Fischer previously reported that the Raptors were one of the only teams Leonard would sign an extension with if he were traded from Los Angeles. ESPN's Bobby Marks noted that Leonard will be eligible to sign an extension worth up to two years and $123.7 million with his new team, per Charania.

Toronto reunited with Leonard by trading Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, unprotected first-round picks in 2031 and 2033, a 2027 first-round pick swap and two second-round picks. Leonard spent the 2018-19 season with the Raptors and led them to their first NBA championship in franchise history. Charania explained what sparked his interest in a return to his old team.

"Three key reasons Leonard was open to this deal to Toronto, according to sources: Familiarity with a Toronto organization that has the majority of its front office structure in place, now led by executive vice president Bobby Webster," Charania stated. "Leonard also likes the city of Toronto and believes the Raptors can contend in the Eastern Conference. Leonard envisions ending his career in Toronto, sources said."