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The Toronto Raptors have officially secured the return of Kawhi Leonard from the Los Angeles Clippers in a trade that has received NBA approval.
To acquire the seven-time All-Star forward, a pivotal figure in the Raptors' 2019 championship run, the team sent a substantial package of assets to the Los Angeles franchise. This package includes players Brandon Ingram and Gradey Dick, along with three first-round and two second-round draft picks.
The deal's officialization followed the NBA's resolution of a case against the LA Clippers concerning salary cap irregularities involving Kawhi Leonard. These violations resulted in fines and the suspension of several franchise executives. The NBA sanctioned the Clippers with a $30 million fine and stripped them of their first five draft picks between 2029 and 2033.
Another factor that led to the case's unblocking was Clippers owner Steve Ballmer's acceptance of the sanctions last Sunday. Ballmer also confirmed that the fine had already been paid. In a statement issued 11 days after the penalties, the harshest in NBA history, were announced, Ballmer apologized to fans and took responsibility for the incident.
A valuable defensive reinforcement for the Raptors, the 35-year-old Kawhi Leonard averaged 27.9 points, 6.3 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.9 steals per game last season with the Clippers.
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