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Kawhi Leonard and the Toronto Raptors are reportedly nearing an agreement on a contract extension. The deal is expected to be finalized before the Canadian team's training camp begins.
Sources indicate that both parties have already engaged in advanced discussions, with Leonard himself keen to resolve his future in Toronto before preparations for the 2026/27 season commence.
The 35-year-old star is currently in the final year of his existing contract, set to earn $50.3 million next season. He is eligible to sign a two-year maximum extension worth up to $126.1 million, which would keep him in Toronto through the end of the 2028/29 season.
This news holds significant importance for Raptors fans and the organization, who have experienced a similar situation with Leonard before. In 2019, he led Toronto to the franchise's first-ever championship but stayed for only one season, declining to commit long-term to the team. After the championship campaign, Leonard became a free agent and signed with the Los Angeles Clippers.
This time, however, the story might have a different ending. Leonard returned to Toronto following the officialization of the massive trade with the Clippers, and the Raptors are now working to ensure he remains with the club for much longer than his initial stint.
Last season, Leonard achieved a career-high in scoring, averaging 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 3.6 assists in 65 games. He finished seventh in MVP voting and was named to the All-NBA Second Team.
Gosho Metodiev
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