The Toronto Raptors acquired Kawhi Leonard from the Clippers in a trade reminiscent of their 2018 acquisition that led to a championship. Toronto sent Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, two unprotected first-round picks (2031, 2033), a 2027 pick swap, and two second-round selections. ESPN grades the deal as an A- for the Raptors.

Leonard, 34, posted a career-high 27.9 points per game last season while shooting 40.5% from three-point range since returning from his ACL injury. He ranks 10th in true shooting percentage among high-usage players and still averages 1.9 steals per game. However, his availability remains questionable—he's played just 67.7% of games over the past four seasons and missed seven of eleven playoff games in 2023-24.

Toronto desperately needed offensive firepower after finishing 15th in offensive rating. Their top four scorers all posted essentially league-average efficiency (57.3-58.5% true shooting), contributing to an 111.9 offensive rating in the first round against Cleveland. Leonard provides the upgrade they lacked, especially alongside Scottie Barnes and Collin Murray-Boyles on defense.

Compared to recent superstar trades, Toronto paid a relatively modest price—controlling only three future first-rounders while retaining flexibility. The Raptors finally held all seven of their future picks before this deal, making the cost more palatable for a player who could push them past their current high-floor, low-ceiling status.