Recent reports indicate the Los Angeles Clippers may explore trading star forward Kawhi Leonard this summer if they cannot agree on a contract extension
Leonard has one year left on his current deal and is set to earn about $50.3 million in the 2026-27 season. He turned 35 this month and posted career best numbers last season, averaging 27.9 points per game while playing in 65 contests.
According to NBA insider Chris Haynes, the Clippers expect to hold extension talks with Leonard’s camp after the draft. If those discussions do not produce an agreement, the team is expected to look at moving him rather than keeping him on an expiring contract.
Multiple teams have shown interest or are monitoring Leonard’s situation. These include the Golden State Warriors, Minnesota Timberwolves, Detroit Pistons, Toronto Raptors, and San Antonio Spurs. Most recently, the Dallas Mavericks have registered interest, with connections noted to new front office executive Masai Ujiri, who previously acquired Leonard for Toronto.
The Raptors and Spurs have historical ties to Leonard from his time with those franchises. An ongoing NBA investigation into Leonard’s past endorsement deal with Aspiration and possible salary cap issues involving the Clippers is also part of the broader context around his future.
The Clippers have not actively shopped Leonard and would likely only move him for a strong offer. No trade appears close at this point, and talks remain in the early stages.