The Toronto Raptors took a major gamble by trading for Kawhi Leonard. The team had no assurances that Leonard would sign a long-term deal to remain in Toronto, but they pulled the trigger on the deal anyway. Well, the team could be rewarded for their gamble. According to Marc. J. Spears of The Undefeated:
“The two-time NBA All-Star forward will be a free agent next summer, but a source has told The Undefeated that he will be open-minded about re-signing with the Raptors.”
Although this isn't definitive, it's a step in the right direction for the Raptors. When they traded for Kawhi, they were trading for the opportunity to recruit him. They were trading for a full year of convincing the mercurial star to re-sign with Toronto.
This is a page directly out of the Oklahoma City Thunder's playbook. The Thunder traded for Paul George despite the superstar's supposed desire to play in Los Angeles. They had no assurances that George would remain in Oklahoma City long-term. Nevertheless, George ultimately decided to re-sign with the Thunder.
The Raptors are hoping the same approach works with Leonard. But everyone knows Leonard is a bit of an odd-ball so there's no telling what might happen. Less than a year ago did anyone expect Leonard to demand a trade from San Antonio? Of course not.
Anything can (and probably will) happen in the NBA. Toronto has a legitimate chance at re-signing Kawhi next summer, but much of what will happen hinges on this season.
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