Kawhi Leonard is positioned to become one of the most closely monitored names in the NBA trade market this offseason, with rival teams expected to evaluate his availability as part of broader roster reshaping plans.
According to NBA insider Evan Sidery, teams that miss out on major targets in the Giannis Antetokounmpo sweepstakes are expected to pivot toward Leonard as a fallback option. The reporting indicates that his expiring contract status could place him at the center of multiple exploratory conversations.
Leonard, 34, is entering the final year of a three-year, $149.5 million deal with the Los Angeles Clippers. His contract situation gives any acquiring team short-term flexibility while also raising the stakes for contenders evaluating immediate championship windows.
On the court, Leonard continued to deliver high-level production during the 2025-26 season. He appeared in 65 games, all starts, and averaged 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 3.6 assists while logging 32.1 minutes per game.
Efficiency remained a key part of his offensive profile. Leonard shot 50.5% from the field, 38.7% from three-point range, and 89.2% from the free-throw line, maintaining strong scoring efficiency despite a heavy workload.
The Clippers finished the season 42-40 and placed ninth in the Western Conference, earning a Play-In Tournament spot. That result has increased external speculation around potential roster adjustments heading into the offseason.
Teams across the league typically value expiring star contracts due to their dual use as competitive upgrades and future cap flexibility. Leonard fits that profile, particularly for contenders seeking immediate perimeter scoring and playoff experience.
