Kawhi Leonard and the Toronto Raptors are set to hammer a long-term pact before finally beginning their 2026-27 NBA season preparations.
According to Michael Grange of Sportsnet, both sides are expected to reach a contract extension before the Raptors head to training camp, as Leonard wants to get a deal done before finally wearing a Toronto uniform.
Kawhi Leonard, Raptors getting closer to a contract extension
After months of waiting amid the NBA's investigation into the Los Angeles Clippers, the Toronto Raptors have finally acquired Kawhi Leonard in a blockbuster trade.
The deal allowed Leonard and the Raptors to reunite seven years after their historic 2019 NBA championship run.
The trade also set the stage for Leonard to earn a new contract with Toronto, with the franchise fully committed to giving the superstar a major payday.
Leonard is entering the final year of his current contract for the 2026–27 season, which will pay him $50.3 million. He is currently eligible to sign a max contract extension worth up to two years and $126.1 million.
The two sides have already held advanced discussions and are reportedly nearing an agreement on a contract extension.
After averaging a career-high 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 3.6 assists in 65 games for the Clippers last season, expectations are high for Leonard to lead Toronto in taking the next steps and mentoring franchise centerpiece Scottie Barnes.