The Toronto Raptors took a huge gamble when they traded for Kawhi Leonard, who had a falling out with the San Antonio Spurs last year, but they're confident in their ability to retain the superstar forward.
The Raptors gave a lot in the deal for Leonard, sending superstar DeMar DeRozan and Jakob Poeltl along with a 2019 first-round pick to San Antonio. Toronto also acquired Danny Green in the deal, but it knew all along that Leonard could eventually become a one-season rental for the franchise.
Leonard could bolt out of Toronto this summer if he decides to opt out of the final year of his current contract. Los Angeles, his hometown, is reportedly one of his preferred destinations. However, the Raptors are still confident they can find a way to keep Leonard in Toronto.
According to ESPN's Tim Bontemps, Raptors general manager Bobby Webster and president of basketball operations Masai Ujiri believe Toronto is still in the best position to sign Leonard when he becomes a free agent. The front office thinks winning could clear any hurdle in their desire to sign Leonard to a long-term deal.
The Raptors have at least 51 wins in the last three seasons, and they are considered one of the favorites to win the Eastern Conference title this season. The future also looks bright for Toronto, with promising young players in Pascal Siakam, OG Anunoby, Delon Wright, Norman Powell, and Fred VanVleet in place.
Leonard is proving that he is still a force to be reckoned with despite coming off a disappointing season in San Antonio. He is averaging a career-high 27.3 points and 8.2 rebounds.
