Kawhi Leonard Returns to Toronto Raptors
Kawhi Leonard has rejoined the Toronto Raptors after a seven-year tenure with the Los Angeles Clippers. When he departed Toronto in 2019, Leonard had just led the team to its first NBA championship, envisioning similar success for the Clippers. Unfortunately, the Clippers failed to qualify for the playoffs in 2025-26 and were eliminated in the first round in the preceding three years.
Toronto’s Team Dynamics
Leonard’s initial exit from Toronto raises questions about alternate outcomes had he remained. At that time, the team was strategically built around Leonard and Kyle Lowry, supported by experienced players such as Serge Ibaka, Marc Gasol, and Danny Green, alongside rising stars like Pascal Siakam, Fred VanVleet, OG Anunoby, and Norman Powell. Continuing with this team might have kept the Raptors in the championship race. Many of these players could have remained with the team if Leonard had stayed.
Instead, Leonard left, prompting a rebuild for the Raptors. Now, he returns to a city with a completely new set of teammates, including RJ Barrett, a Toronto native and former third overall draft pick from the New York Knicks.
RJ Barrett’s Role
Draymond Green, on his podcast, discussed Leonard’s return to Toronto and suggested Barrett might soon be traded. Green implied that integrating Leonard with Scottie Barnes gives the Raptors a competitive edge. “I wouldn’t be surprised if you see RJ Barrett on the move at some point,” Green stated, pointing out the team’s potential restructuring.
“I have to ask myself the question of all the things that were offered to Kawhi to not leave Canada, does he look back on that like ‘damn I should’ve taken those things and stayed put,'” Green added.
Barrett’s Future Endeavors
RJ Barrett spent his initial four and a half NBA seasons with the Knicks before being traded to his hometown team, where he displayed exceptional performance. During the Raptors’ playoff series against the Cavaliers, Barrett emerged as the leading scorer, averaging 24.1 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 4.0 assists over 38.7 minutes per game.
As Barrett approaches the final year of his contract, the Raptors will have to consider his future. He’s due to receive $29.6 million next season before becoming an unrestricted free agent. His consistent scoring average of 20 points per game and efficient field goal percentage of 49.1% make him a valuable asset in potential trade negotiations.
Barrett’s Impact on the Team
Although trade speculation is high, Barrett has quickly become integral to the team. He’s recognized for his robust, versatile play style and willingness to confront opposing teams. Toronto’s emotional ties to Barrett, coupled with his status as a local player, add complexity to trade decisions. The Raptors are likely to retain Barrett unless a trade considerably enhances the team’s competitive standing.
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