NBA Rumors: Kawhi Leonard Considering, Not Promising With Lakers

Kawhi Leonard has options in NBA free agency, but this is not a sure sign that he will leave the Toronto Raptors, the same team he recently led to the 2018-19 NBA title. Even before he led the team to its first title, most knew that the 28-year-old had options heading this summer. But that feat does complicate things - especially for teams in hot pursuit of the two-time NBA Finals MVP.

Multiple reports have now suggested that the two-time NBA champion is giving the Los Angeles Lakers and the Los Angeles Clippers to talk to him this summer once free agency opens on June 30, Manila Bulletin Sports reported. But adding a bit of more intrigue in these talks said to be happening in Los Angeles is this take from Stephen A. Smith of ESPN claiming that Leonard is seriously considering the Los Angeles Lakers.

There are several things to consider in these latest Kawhi Leonard free agency reports. First is that he plans to sit down and listen to the offers of the Lakers and the Clippers. As far as Smith's claim, these are things that may happen or not. Although he has most of the time been on point, it would still be best to wait for something official from Leonard or his camp.

The Clippers were favorites to land Leonard since last NBA season. The Lakers, an alleged preferred destination was in play as well although there were reports back then that he did not want to play behind the shadows of another superstar - obviously referring to LeBron James. Ironically, James and Leonard conversed before the 2018-19 NBA season ended, something that may have refueled a potential coming. All this came before the Lakers finally struck a deal with the New Orleans Pelicans for Anthony Davis.

As most know by now, the Lakers have $32 million in team salary budget to boost their chances of signing a third NBA superstar. If money is to be the basis, Kawhi would still get the best offer from the Raptors. And seeing how he recently towed the Raptors to their first NBA title, leaving at this point with the likely possibility of being dangled big money to stay on certainly does not add up.

Heading into NBA free agency, Leonard will be simply listening to offers on the table. And while some believe he could opt to sign with other teams, it may have to be something incredible to convince him to leave a team he just led to the Larry O'Brien trophy -Toronto's very first that makes it pretty historical and sweet.