The Toronto Raptors have time on their side as the Kawhi Leonard trade remains on hold.
The Kawhi Leonard trade remains in limbo as the Los Angeles Clippers lie under the NBA's microscope on suspicion of circumventing the league's salary cap to appease the 35-year-old superstar.
With that, the Toronto Raptors have something to think about. This is especially true if league commissioner Adam Silver and his investigative crew decide to dole out severe punishments against Leonard and the Clippers.
Does Toronto go through with the trade as-is or do they attempt to negotiate with L.A. for a reduced package?
According to ESPN, the Raptors are set to part ways with Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick and multiple draft picks, including an unprotected 2031 first rounder in exchange for Leonard.
As the Raptors look to claw their way back to Eastern Conference contention, making the move for Leonard makes a lot of sense despite his age and lengthy injury history.
Leonard averaged 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, 3.6 assists and 1.9 steals per game in 65 games of action just this past season. He was also efficient from the field, shooting 50.5% while also shooting 38.7% from beyond the arc. Additionally, he delivered at the free throw line for the Clippers with an 89.2% conversion rate.
Furthermore, the forward continues to be a favorite among the Scotiabank Arena-faithful after a historic 2019 finals run that saw Toronto topple the Golden State Warriors in six games for their first-ever NBA championship.
As a result, Leonard donning red and black once again should garner a renewed increase in attendance.
While Ingram, Dick and the 2031 first are likely non-negotiables at this point, the Raptors would be wise to consider if giving up additional picks like the 2033 first is worth it given the risk of a possible Leonard suspension.
Even though Leonard would make for a terrific fit on the court alongside Scottie Barnes, Collin Murray-Boyles and RJ Barrett, Toronto would still be in good shape if the NBA's findings lead to the deal being nixed.
Besides the team's existing core, general manager Bobby Webster might already have the Raptors heading on a positive trajectory following his selections of Allen Graves and Jaden Bradley in the NBA Draft.
Graves would go on to dominate in Summer League play, averaging 16.8 points, 6.8 rebounds and three assists per game. Toronto also demonstrated early confidence in Bradley, signing him to a two-way contract.
Although a Leonard reunion would be amazing for the Raptors, the current price at which it will come may present issues for the team in spite of a controversy they were not directly involved in.
