Leonard returns to Toronto! Clippers and Raptors reach a 1-for-7 trade, sending Ingram and Dick to Los Angeles

On July 1, Beijing time, Shams reports that the Clippers and Raptors have completed a deal centered on Kawhi Leonard. The Clippers trade Leonard to Toronto, receiving Ingram, Dick, two first-rounders, one first-round swap, and two second-rounders. Leonard intends to end his career as a Raptor.

Just past his 35th birthday, Leonard stands 1.98 meters tall. He is an elite two-way forward, drafted 15th overall in the 2011 first round. He holds two NBA championships and two Finals MVP awards. Additionally, he is a two-time Defensive Player of the Year and has been named to the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team.

Leonard’s career began with the Spurs, where his long wingspan and large hands helped him develop the famous "Death Clamp" defense, earning him Defensive Player of the Year early on. In 2018, he was traded to the Raptors. In just one season there, he led the team past the Magic, 76ers, and Bucks in the playoffs, then defeated the Warriors in the Finals to capture the franchise’s first title, winning Finals MVP with an average of 28.5 points per game. After that championship, he went to his hometown Los Angeles to join the Clippers, beginning a seven-year tenure in LA.

Injuries have been the biggest concern throughout Leonard’s career. He has suffered torn ACL and meniscus injuries, leading to frequent load management and rest. However, when healthy, his dominance on the court remains top-tier. In the 2025-26 season, he played 65 regular-season games, averaging 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.9 steals per game, with a 50.5% field goal percentage and 38.7% three-point shooting. His scoring was a career high, earning him a spot on the All-NBA Second Team while still being an elite iso scorer and defensive stopper.

Currently, he has only one year left on his contract, worth $50.3 million. The Clippers have shown no interest in offering a long-term extension. Trade negotiations between the Clippers and Raptors began recently, and Leonard’s camp has indicated that he is only willing to sign a long-term extension with Toronto.

Leonard plays with a calm, efficient style. His mid-range pull-up is unstoppable, and he excels both as an on-ball scorer and off-ball shooter. Defensively, he can lock down the opponent’s best player. Returning to Toronto, he will once again lead the team’s championship aspirations.

Brandon Ingram is 28 years old, stands 2.03 meters tall, and plays forward. He was the second overall pick in the 2016 draft. Known for his long frame and soft touch, he is often compared to Kevin Durant. His career began with the Lakers, but he was sent to the Pelicans in the Anthony Davis trade. In the 2019-20 season, he averaged 23.8 points, winning Most Improved Player and earning his first All-Star selection, establishing himself as a top-tier wing. In 2025, he was traded to the Raptors, becoming the team’s offensive focal point. Last season, he played 77 regular-season games, averaging 21.5 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 3.7 assists, with a 38.2% three-point percentage. His go-to moves are isolation scoring and mid-range pull-ups, and he also possesses playmaking ability.