Clippers Owner Steve Ballmer Reluctant to Trade Kawhi Leonard
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The Los Angeles Clippers are reportedly hesitant to move All-Star forward Kawhi Leonard, even as outside pressure mounts for a roster overhaul.
Reporting from The Athletic’s Hunter Patterson and Sam Amick indicates that league executives doubt owner Steve Ballmer would sign off on a deal involving Leonard. “There is doubt Ballmer would actually approve a trade,” one rival executive told the outlet.
Leonard, 32, is entering the final season of his contract and is owed $50.3 million in 2024-25. His name surfaced in multiple rumors before February’s trade deadline, with sources saying the Golden State Warriors nearly completed a deal that ultimately fell apart.
The Clippers have already parted with several veterans since last summer, prompting speculation that a broader rebuild could follow. Despite that, Ballmer has consistently backed Leonard throughout the forward’s five-year stint in Los Angeles.
Interest in Leonard is expected to remain high. The Warriors and the Miami Heat are among the teams likely to monitor his situation when the offseason begins.
Leonard appeared in 65 games this season—his highest total in several years—while averaging 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds and 3.6 assists.
For now, league observers are waiting to see whether Ballmer’s stance shifts as Leonard’s contract winds down.
Source: Hoops Wire
