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This “deja vu” scenario bears an eerie resemblance to the unsuccessful pairing of Harden and Westbrook during their tenure with the Houston Rockets, and it has raised serious questions about the viability of this star-studded lineup over three years later, especially considering the players’ age and declining skills. The repercussions of this struggle extend beyond the win-loss column; it has become increasingly evident that the team is grappling with the challenge of harmonizing All-Star names and massive egos, a task that history, most notably the recent example of the Brooklyn Nets, suggests is fraught with difficulties.

In this context, Kawhi Leonard, despite his restored health this season, finds himself in a precarious situation where victory seems hard to come by. Quite frankly, the situation in Los Angeles is simply not great right now. As he faces the option of rejecting a significant $48,787,676 player option after this season, the looming question emerges: What is the most realistic destination for Kawhi Leonard if he decides to part ways with the Clippers in 2024 and seeks a long-term deal that aligns with his championship aspirations and individual goals?

It is clear that a lineup featuring Paul George, James Harden, and Russell Westbrook won’t work and that means Kawhi Leonard might have to look elsewhere for his future and there are five major destinations for him to start his new and possibly final chapter of his future Hall of Fame career.

New York Knicks

Credit: Fadeaway World

The first prominent destination has to be the New York Knicks, a franchise with an elite basketball history that features two All-Stars already: Julius Randle and Jalen Brunson. To get this deal done, the Knicks need to move on from a starter and bench player to give the Clippers something in return.

Sign-And-Trade Details

New York Knicks Receive: Kawhi Leonard (sign-and-trade)

Los Angeles Clippers Receive: RJ Barrett, Evan Fournier

The proposed sign-and-trade between the New York Knicks and the Los Angeles Clippers, sending Kawhi Leonard to the Knicks in exchange for RJ Barrett and Evan Fournier, presents an intriguing scenario for both teams.

For the New York Knicks, acquiring a player of Kawhi Leonard’s caliber instantly transforms the team into a more formidable contender. Leonard, known for his two-way prowess and clutch performances, would provide the Knicks with a bonafide superstar to build around. His defensive acumen and scoring ability could elevate the team’s competitiveness in the Eastern Conference.

Julius Randle ($30,317,760) and Jalen Brunson ($24,960,001) will make major money, and Leonard can slot in for the Big Three on the payroll. The Knicks might have to move one of Josh Hart ($18,144,000) or Mitchell Robinson ($14,318,182) to get more freedom next year, but acquiring Leonard is the key while fixing the rest of the roster can easily come later.

Pairing Leonard with the defensive-minded structure implemented by coach Tom Thibodeau could create a potent combination, with the potential to make the Knicks a serious playoff threat. A Big Three of Randle, Brunson, and Leonard would take apart the Eastern Conference, and only the Boston Celtics and Milwaukee Bucks would have similar All-Star talent on their teams.

On the other hand, the Los Angeles Clippers, in parting with Kawhi Leonard, receive a promising young talent in RJ Barrett and a veteran scorer in Evan Fournier. Barrett, a former high lottery pick, has showcased significant growth in his scoring and playmaking abilities, offering the Clippers a potential cornerstone for their future.

Fournier’s scoring and shooting prowess add immediate offensive impact to the roster. While losing a player of Leonard’s caliber is a significant blow, this trade allows the Clippers to transition towards a new era, focusing on building around a younger core while maintaining competitiveness.

In summary, this trade could potentially benefit both teams. The Knicks gain a marquee player in Leonard, enhancing their immediate prospects, while the Clippers secure valuable assets in Barrett and Fournier, setting the stage for a redefined future.

Miami Heat

Credit: Fadeaway World

The second destination in consideration is obviously the Miami Heat. They went hard after Damian Lillard but ultimately fell short in their pursuit and are stuck with a roster that won’t be winning a championship anytime soon. Pat Riley can focus on Leonard, a superstar player who will be tempted by living in South Beach.

Sign-And-Trade Details

Miami Heat Receive: Kawhi Leonard (sign-and-trade)

Los Angeles Clippers Receive: Tyler Herro, Duncan Robinson

The Miami Heat, perennial contenders with a keen eye for star power, emerge as a compelling destination for Kawhi Leonard in this proposed sign-and-trade scenario. After an ambitious pursuit of Damian Lillard fell short, the Heat pivoted towards Leonard, a proven championship-caliber player, enticingly offering the allure of South Beach living and the prospect of forming a new formidable “Big 3” alongside Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo.

In this deal, the Heat acquire Leonard, a two-time NBA Finals MVP known for his clutch performances and elite two-way skills. His addition to a lineup already boasting Butler and Adebayo instantly transforms Miami into a force to be reckoned with in the Eastern Conference. The prospect of a “Big 3” featuring Leonard’s scoring, Butler’s tenacity, and Adebayo’s versatility present a formidable challenge to any team in the league.

The presence of other valuable players such as Caleb Martin, Kevin Love, and possibly Kyle Lowry on a team-friendly deal under Erik Spoelstra’s tutelage proves that the Heat can win it all even if they will end up with three players making max money. This is possible since Lowry is off the books next season ($29,682,540 in 2023-24) and the next highest-paid player excluding Herro and Robinson is Martin at $6,802,950.

On the flip side, the Los Angeles Clippers receive valuable assets in Tyler Herro and Duncan Robinson, both of whom have showcased their scoring prowess and shooting abilities. This trade allows the Clippers to infuse youth and shooting into their roster while maintaining competitiveness.

For the Heat, this blockbuster move represents a strategic shift in their pursuit of an NBA championship, aiming to overcome the disappointment of recent Finals losses in 2020 and 2023. Pat Riley’s pursuit of star talent continues, and with Leonard in the mix, the Heat position themselves as legitimate contenders, ready to make a deep playoff run and vie for the coveted Larry O’Brien Trophy for the first time since 2013.

San Antonio Spurs

Credit: Fadeaway World

The third major destination is Leonard’s former team, the San Antonio Spurs. Kawhi grew into his own in San Antonio under Gregg Popovich and beside Tim Duncan, earning two Defensive Player of the Year awards and a Finals MVP trophy in 2014. The only way for the Spurs to be in the mix is for Leonard to formally request his dedication to the team, forgetting about how ugly it was when he exited before the 2019 season.

Sign-And-Trade Details

San Antonio Spurs Receive: Kawhi Leonard (sign-and-trade)

Los Angeles Clippers Receive: Keldon Johnson, Zach Collins

A return to familiar territory for Kawhi Leonard is a tantalizing prospect as the San Antonio Spurs emerge as a potential destination in this proposed sign-and-trade scenario. Leonard, who flourished under the tutelage of Gregg Popovich and alongside Tim Duncan in San Antonio, could find a homecoming that rekindles the success he enjoyed during his earlier tenure with the Spurs.

Forging a path for Leonard’s return to San Antonio hinges on the player formally expressing a desire to reunite with the team. Despite the acrimonious departure in 2018, marked by trade requests and a strained relationship, the potential for reconciliation looms large. The Spurs, with a rich history of success under Popovich’s leadership, could provide Leonard with the stability and environment that fueled his rise to stardom.

In this sign-and-trade proposition, the Spurs secure the return of a player who played a pivotal role in their last NBA championship in 2014. The addition of Leonard, combined with emerging talents like Keldon Johnson, Zach Collins, and the promise of young superstar Victor Wembanyama, positions the Spurs for a renewed era of success. The rest of the roster, featuring promising players like Jeremy Sochan, Devin Vassell, and Tre Jones, creates a foundation built for both immediate success and sustained competitiveness.

The way the Spurs have set up their team is perfect for Leonard to come in and put them on the map. Wembanyama will make $12,768,664 next season while Devonte’ Graham is on $12,650,000. Vassell is on a major deal ($29,347,826 in 2025), but still, there is plenty of room to bring Leonard on board while also digging in the free agent pool next summer.

For Kawhi Leonard, leading the Spurs into a new chapter as a veteran presence and leader would be a compelling narrative. The potential forgiveness and collaboration with Popovich could signal a return to the glory days for the Spurs, offering Leonard a chance to shape the next era of San Antonio basketball and solidify his legacy with the team where it all began.

Toronto Raptors

Credit: Fadeaway World

Speaking of Leonard’s former teams, the Toronto Raptors is another viable candidate for the superstar’s signature. Leonard won the NBA title in 2019 with the team, in his first and only season in Canada, and he might have enough to do it again in terms of culture, fanbase, and talent including former Rookie of the Year Scottie Barnes, defensive star OG Anunoby, and plenty of cap space.

Sign-And-Trade Details

Toronto Raptors Receive: Kawhi Leonard (sign-and-trade)

Los Angeles Clippers Receive: Pascal Siakam

The allure of a homecoming to the Toronto Raptors, where Kawhi Leonard secured an NBA title in 2019, presents an intriguing possibility in this sign-and-trade proposition. Leonard, who left an indelible mark on the Raptors’ franchise with his iconic playoff performances, could find himself back in the embrace of a passionate fan base, a familiar culture, and a roster teeming with young talent.

In this scenario, the Raptors, keen on recapturing the magic of their championship season, orchestrate a sign-and-trade to bring Leonard back north of the border. The addition of a proven champion and Finals MVP to a roster already featuring emerging stars like Scottie Barnes and defensive standout OG Anunoby positions the Raptors as formidable contenders in the Eastern Conference. Leonard’s leadership, playoff experience, and ability to perform in clutch moments could serve as the catalyst for another deep playoff run.

The Raptors can get clever by acquiring Leonard, and executive Masai Ujiri is one of the best in the league. By moving Siakam for Leonard, they can focus their contending efforts on Barnes ($8,008,680 in 2024, $10,130,980 in 2025, $13,362,763 qualifying offer in 2026) and Anunoby (contract extension presumed). Meanwhile, they can target big-name free agents next summer including Klay Thompson, James Harden, and even legend DeMar DeRozan (if he does not sign an extension with the Bulls). With Leonard, the chances of creating a superteam become very possible.

On the other end of the deal, the Los Angeles Clippers receive Pascal Siakam, a versatile and athletic forward who can contribute on both ends of the floor. Siakam’s skill set aligns with the Clippers’ needs, providing a valuable asset to complement their existing roster.

For Kawhi Leonard, a return to Toronto would not only represent a reunion with a team that holds a special place in his career but also a chance to build on the foundation of success he established during his brief stint with the Raptors. The combination of established talent, promising young players and the passionate Raptors fan base could create an environment conducive to another championship pursuit, making Toronto a compelling destination in Leonard’s free agency considerations.

Philadelphia 76ers

Credit: Fadeaway World

The Philadelphia 76ers might be the biggest and most impressive team that can go after Leonard. They have a superstar center in Joel Embiid, an All-Star guard in Tyrese Maxey, and excellent coaching with Nick Nurse behind a fanbase that cares. The 76ers had the most success when Jimmy Butler was on the team in 2019, but they can reach another level by acquiring Kawhi Leonard and pushing for the championship.

Sign-And-Trade Details

Philadelphia 76ers Receive: Kawhi Leonard (sign-and-trade)

Los Angeles Clippers Receive: Tobias Harris, Paul Reed

The Philadelphia 76ers emerge as a compelling destination for Kawhi Leonard, signaling the potential formation of a powerhouse trio alongside Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey. In this envisioned sign-and-trade scenario, the 76ers, armed with a superstar center, an emerging All-Star guard, and the guidance of head coach Nick Nurse, position themselves as a formidable force in the Eastern Conference.

The addition of Kawhi Leonard to the 76ers’ roster elevates the team’s championship aspirations to new heights. Leonard, known for his playoff heroics and two-way prowess, would complement the dominant inside presence of Joel Embiid and provide the team with a dynamic scoring option on the perimeter. The trio of Leonard, Embiid, and Maxey creates a versatile and potent combination, capable of challenging any team in the league.

The reason the 76ers can go after Leonard is how their salary cap situation will be next season. With the James Harden trade, Philly can basically clear their cap with many of their team free agents next year. Tobias Harris ($39,270,150), Marcus Morris ($17,116,279), Nicolas Batum ($11,710,818), Robert Covington ($11,692,308), De’Anthony Melton ($8,000,000) will all be free agents in 2024-25 with Embiid ($51,415,938 ) and Maxey ($6,259,588 qualifying offer with max contract expected) using much of the cap space. Moving Tobias Harris and Paul Reed ($7,723,000 in 2024, $7,723,000 in 2025, $8,109,150 in 2026) means Leonard can come in and make the difference for the 76ers.

In exchange for Leonard, the Los Angeles Clippers receive Tobias Harris, a seasoned forward with scoring ability and playoff experience, and Paul Reed, a young and promising talent. This trade allows the Clippers to address their roster needs while the 76ers bolster their championship-caliber lineup.

The success of the 76ers in the 2019 playoffs, particularly with the presence of Jimmy Butler, provides a blueprint for the potential success of a star-studded lineup. Acquiring Kawhi Leonard, a proven winner and Finals MVP, positions the 76ers to reach new heights and contend for an NBA championship. The prospect of Leonard joining forces with Embiid and Maxey creates a buzz around Philadelphia, reigniting the fervor of a passionate fan base hungry for postseason success.