Los Angeles Clippers star forward Kawhi Leonard admitted to giving the Toronto Raptors a strong consideration after winning a title with them last season. Upon returning to Toronto to receive his championship ring in Wednesday's regular season game against the Raptors, Leonard told reporters he had to think long and hard before deciding on his long-term future.

“I gave it a big consideration,” said Leonard, according to Michael Grange of Rogers SportsNet. “I took my time, I didn’t hurry up and make a quick decision. I talked to the front office in deep detail. It was a hard choice to make.”

Leonard ultimately chose to return home to the confines of Los Angeles, signing a three-year deal with the Clippers after they successfully traded for Paul George to be his partner in crime.

The Klaw played a big part in the Raptors' success, helping them capture their first title in 24 seasons, one the city welcomed and thanked him for, despite only lasting one season with the organization.

The front office of Masai Ujiri and Bobby Webster knew very well they could be risking everything by trading a franchise staple in DeMar DeRozan for a virtual year of Leonard — but that gamble paid off with the ultimate reward, an NBA championship that will forever live on the rafters of the arena — even if Leonard never returns to The North.