Despite playing just one year with the Toronto Raptors, Kawhi Leonard's impact on the franchise will never be forgotten.
In July of 2018, Leonard — then a San Antonio Spur — was traded to the Raptors. Leonard and the Raps would go on to win 58 games in the regular season and would then make their way through the Eastern Conference before beating the Golden State Warriors in six games to become NBA champions.
The championship was the first in Raptors franchise history and after averaging 28.5 points, 9.8 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 2.0 steals and 1.2 blocks in the series, Leonard was named Finals MVP for the second time in his career.
Leonard would leave Toronto to join the Los Angeles Clippers this offseason. However, during the Raptors' game against the Clippers on Wednesday, the team honored their finals MVP with his championship ring.
"Board Man Gets His Ring"💯#KawhiLeonard #Raptors pic.twitter.com/av303ANqK9
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPointsApp) December 12, 2019
The Raptors have done well without Leonard so far in 2019, posting a 16-7 record. As for Leonard's new team, the Clippers are currently second in the Western Conference with an 18-7 record.
Leonard, now a two-time champion, is averaging 25.1 points, 7.9 rebounds, 5.2 assists and 1.9 steals for the Clippers alongside fellow star Paul George. However, Leonard has already missed seven of the team's 26 games with injury and load management.
Despite missing last game against the Indiana Pacers, Leonard was able to suit up and play against his former team.
Leonard scored 12 points, grabbed 11 rebounds and dished nine assists in 35 minutes during the two team's first matchup this season on November 11.Los Angeles would go on to win that game 98-88
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