New Kawhi Leonard Rumors Reveal 'Advanced' Contract Talks with Raptors After Clippers Trade

The Toronto Raptors have had "advanced discussions" with star Kawhi Leonard on a contract extension, according to The Stein Line's Jake Fischer .

Fischer reported an agreement between the two sides appears likely.

Leonard is under contract for $50.3 million in 2026-27 before he's eligible for free agency next summer.

Every NBA Team's Top Breakout Candidate This Upcoming Season 😀

2017 NBA Re-Draft Gives Teams the Ultimate Do-Overs 🏀

Toronto gave up Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, first-round picks in 2031 and 2033, and a first-round pick swap in 2027 in order to acquire Leonard from the Los Angeles Clippers.

With that kind of outlay, it stood to reason the Raptors considered the seven-time All-Star to be more than a one-year rental.

Leonard, meanwhile, doesn't have the same kind of leverage he did when first got traded to Toronto in 2018 and was on an expiring deal. He turned 35 in June and has consistently battled injuries. The 2016-17 season was the last time he logged 70-plus appearances.

The Clippers clearly had their qualms about meeting his asking price, hence his exit from L.A.

Fischer noted Leonard can add up to two years and $126 million to his existing contract. Paying him $60 million annually would be a big investment when the trio of Scottie Barnes, Immanuel Quickley and Jakob Poeltl count for more than $100 million collectively. A two-year term would at least prevent the Raptors from getting committed too long to a player with age and injury-related concerns.

Maybe Leonard will continue to perform at a high level by the time he's 37. If that happens, it shouldn't prove too difficult for the parties to strike another bargain.