Three Clubs Tried to Snatch Leonard from Rajaković!

Pulse Sports Team 08:41 - 21 September 2026

Darko Rajaković received a major boost this summer as two-time NBA champion and two-time Finals MVP Kawhi Leonard joined his Toronto Raptors. After a period of uncertainty, the Canadian franchise successfully completed the trade for the popular "Klaw," for whom several other NBA teams had shown significant interest.

After months of anticipation and an NBA investigation involving the Los Angeles Clippers, Toronto has finally pulled off a blockbuster trade, bringing back the player who led them to a championship in 2019 after a seven-year absence.

According to insider Marc Stein, before the trade was officially finalized, the Miami Heat, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Detroit Pistons all showed significant interest in Leonard. However, the same source indicates that the star forward only wanted to join either the Raptors or the San Antonio Spurs.

Max Contract Ready

Ultimately, the Canadian team secured a massive reinforcement, and this trade paved the way for Leonard to receive a new contract in Toronto, with the franchise fully committed to offering the wing player a maximum deal.

Leonard is entering the final year of his current contract for the 2026-27 season, where he is set to earn $50.3 million. He is currently eligible to sign a maximum two-year contract extension worth up to $126.1 million. The two sides have already held advanced discussions and are reportedly close to a final agreement.

After averaging 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 3.6 assists in 65 games for the Clippers last season, expectations for Leonard are exceptionally high. He is tasked with elevating Toronto and helping to develop the team's primary star, Scottie Barnes.