Kawhi Wants Lakers But Has Doubts, Raptors Make Strong Pitch

Kawhi Leonard’s impending free agency decision is the most highly anticipated among teams that are in the sweepstakes for the small forward or even otherwise as his decision could have a domino effect on the remaining free agents on the market. After a flurry of activities in the first 48 hours after free agency started, things have slowed down a bit with Leonard being the only elite free agent yet to make a decision.

The 28-year-old and his representatives are going through the process after meeting with interested teams – Los Angeles Lakers, Clippers and Raptors – and are expected to take their time before reaching a decision. The two-time NBA Finals MVP has ruled out signing a short-term deal and is expected to either sign a max five-year $190 million deal with the Raptors or a four-year max deal with another franchise.

Leonard is expected to have held meetings with the Lakers and Clippers at the start of free agency and had given the Raptors the final slot in order to make their pitch. He led them to their first ever NBA championship in 2019 and gave them the opportunity to be the last to convince him to remain with the franchise.

Fox Sports’ Chris Broussard reports that Leonard had a strong meeting with the Raptors on Wednesday which also involved music producer Drake. He claims that the small forward is keen on the Lakers but is making sure the big three involving him, Anthony Davis and LeBron James will work. Also, the Clippers are said to be out of the running with Leonard now taking his time before deciding whether to don the purple and gold next season or remain a Raptor.

“Raptors had strong meeting yesterday. Drake heavily involved. Talked of having Kawhi involved w/his OVO record label. Kawhi in deep soul searching. Wants Lakers but wants to make sure Big 3 will fit/work. Clippers out. It’s btwn Lakers & Raptors. Very close,” Broussard wrote.

Leonard has reportedly met with Lakers legend Magic Johnson in order to learn more about the Lakers plans of handling three big players, especially the attention he will get in the presence of 15-time All-Star James in the team. The NBA insiders are split with few claiming that the Lakers have won the race while many claim he will re-commit to the Raptors.