This Kawhi Leonard move was expected. His next might not be.
The NBA Finals MVP will become an unrestricted free agent after opting out of his 2019-20 player option worth $21.3 million, according to Yahoo Sports. Many viewed his one season in Toronto as a pit stop following his arrival from the Spurs, making a foray into free agency inevitable.
Then the 27-year-old led the Raptors over the Warriors for their first NBA championship, and the same outlet reports Leonard is “seriously considering” re-signing with the only franchise that can offer him a max contract for five years and $190 million. Teammate Kyle Lowry led a “five more years” chant at the team’s championship parade last week, though Leonard has remained mum on his future.
A return to Southern California — likely with the Clippers — has been speculated, while the Knicks are also expected to make a push for the two-time NBA champion.