The Raptors' road to Eastern Conference contention opened Monday when Toronto and the LA Clippers finalized a long-delayed trade sending Kawhi Leonard to Toronto for Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, two unprotected first-round picks, one first-round pick swap and two second-round picks. The deal ends a saga that enveloped both teams, as the NBA completed its nearly year-long investigation into allegations of salary cap circumvention stemming from the Clippers' dealings with Leonard. Now with Leonard in Toronto, the two-time Finals MVP will pair with rising star Scottie Barnes and second-year big Collin Murray-Boyles, hoping to replicate the success of their 2019 title run.

ESPN's staff is looking back at the offseason and taking an early look at the 2026-27 season, with 30 previews rolling out each weekday through Friday. Key additions: Kawhi Leonard, Kyle Anderson, Andre Jackson Jr. Key subtractions: Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, Sandro Mamukelashvili. Key retentions: Jamal Shead.

After waiting months to finalize their acquisition of Leonard, the Raptors can finally look ahead to what could be their most promising season in years. Leonard plugs in as a major positional upgrade over Ingram. The rest of the starting lineup remains intact, and Collin Murray-Boyles should only improve after a standout rookie campaign. While losing Mamukelashvili took a bite out of their bench, Toronto has crafted a high-energy supporting cast for Leonard and two-time All-Star Scottie Barnes. The plucky Raptors, who won 46 games last season, have a real shot to win their first playoff series since 2020. -- Ben Golliver

Zach Kram's offseason grade: A. Toronto's only real move of consequence was trading for Kawhi Leonard, who should bring major improvements over Brandon Ingram on both ends. The cost in draft picks was substantially greater than the last time Toronto traded for Leonard, eight years ago, but it was a worthwhile risk for a team that now has a legitimate chance to reach the Finals if Leonard can stay healthy. -- Kram