Kawhi Leonard Re-signs with Raptors for Two Years

Kawhi Leonard returned to the Toronto Raptors after a trade from the Los Angeles Clippers and has signed a two‑year, $115 million extension with a player option for the 2028‑29 season. The deal follows a complex trade and the Clippers’ recent penalties for salary‑cap violations. Leonard’s return ma…

By Felo News Desk · Published Tue, 22 Sep 2026 22:38:20 GMT

In a move that has reshaped the Eastern Conference landscape, Kawhi Leonard has signed a two‑year, $115 million contract extension with the Toronto Raptors. The deal, which includes a player option for the 2028‑29 season, was confirmed by Leonard’s agent, Harrison Gaines, after the NBA cleared the trade that sent the former Los Angeles Clippers star back to Toronto.

From Los Angeles to Toronto: The Trade That Made Headlines

On June 30, the Clippers agreed to trade Leonard to the Raptors in a package that included Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick and several draft picks. The transaction was delayed by the NBA’s investigation into the Clippers’ salary‑cap circumvention scheme, which ultimately led to the team losing five first‑round picks and a $30 million fine. The trade was only finalized on September 14, after the league cleared the deal and the Clippers’ penalties were imposed.

Leonard’s return to Toronto reunites him with the franchise that first brought him to the spotlight in the 2018‑19 season, when he helped the Raptors win the league’s only championship. The 2026‑27 season had already seen Leonard sign a three‑year, $149.5 million contract with the Clippers, but the recent trade and subsequent extension mean he will now be a long‑term fixture in the Raptors’ plans.

Contract Details and What They Mean for the Raptors

The new agreement is a two‑year deal worth $115 million, with a player option for the 2028‑29 season. This structure gives the Raptors flexibility while ensuring Leonard’s presence for the next few seasons. The extension follows a strong 2025‑26 campaign in which Leonard averaged 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, 3.6 assists and 1.9 steals per game in 65 games for the Clippers.

With Leonard’s return, the Raptors’ frontcourt is now anchored by both him and Scottie Barnes. The duo is expected to elevate Toronto’s competitiveness in a stacked Eastern Conference, where the Raptors finished last season as a top‑five seed. Leonard’s veteran leadership and defensive prowess complement Barnes’ versatility, creating a dynamic core that could propel the team deep into the playoffs.

Leonard’s Perspective on the Move

Leonard made his first public remarks about the trade last week, explaining his decision to return to Toronto. In a video posted to the Raptors’ Open Gym YouTube channel, he said, “I’m not really championship chasing, I’m trying to find the best team I could win with.” He added that the city had a special place in his heart, noting that his son was born in Toronto and that the family has grown fond of the city’s culture.

While Leonard has not explicitly stated his championship aspirations, his history with Toronto and the team’s recent success suggest that he is eager to contribute to another title run. His experience, especially from the 2019 championship run, positions him as a key piece in the Raptors’ pursuit of postseason glory.

What’s Next for the Raptors?

The Raptors will now focus on building around Leonard and Barnes, while also addressing depth concerns that emerged during the 2025‑26 season. The team’s front office is expected to explore free‑agency options and potential trades to bolster the roster for a deep playoff push. With Leonard’s contract extending through 2027‑28 and a player option for 2028‑29, the Raptors have a clear timeline for their rebuilding and championship plans.

As the NBA season approaches, fans will watch closely to see how Leonard’s presence reshapes the Raptors’ strategy and whether the team can translate his talent into another championship run.

Key facts

Leonard re‑signed with the Raptors for two years at $115 million.
Trade delayed by NBA investigation into Clippers’ salary‑cap violations.
Leonard’s return reunites him with the 2019 championship team.
Raptors’ frontcourt now features Leonard and Barnes.
Leonard seeks the best team to win with, not just championships.

Why it matters

Leonard’s return to Toronto signals a new era for the Raptors, potentially positioning them as a championship contender in a highly competitive Eastern Conference.