On the court, Kawhi Leonard hasn't had much success this season, because of all the time he has missed with injuries, and off the court, he doesn't seem to be doing much better.
Leonard already has an agreement with the Jordan Brand on a shoe and apparel deal, but it sounds like an extension of that contract has broken down, and soon Leonard could be a free agent in the shoe department.
According to Michael C. Wright and Ramona Shelburne of ESPN:
“Jordan Brand, and Leonard's representatives came “very close” to completion on a new four-year extension worth more than $20 million. But discussions broke down abruptly because representatives for Leonard didn't feel that the new deal reflected the forward's accomplishments and standing within the league, sources said.”
Jordan and Leonard's contract will expire on October 1st, but Leonard could start looking for a new deal before that date.
Jordan still does have the right to match any contract that Leonard is offered though, so even if he signs with someone else Jordan could match the deal, and Leonard will still stay apart of the Nike family.
One of the big sticking point with Leonard and Jordan is that they aren't offering a signature shoe deal with this contract extension.
With a signature kicks on paper, most companies pay around five percent in royalties which really bumps up how much an athlete can make.
For Leonard, it might be in his best interest to see if any other company will give him a signature shoe, and if he can find one, pressure would be applied on Jordan to either let him walk or give in to his demand.
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