Raptors, Clippers Making Progress on Leonard Trade; Multiple Clubs Map Out Free-Agency Plans
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The Toronto Raptors and Los Angeles Clippers are engaged in advanced discussions on a deal that would return two-time Finals MVP Kawhi Leonard to Canada, according to league sources cited by Marc Stein and Jake Fischer. Momentum is said to be building toward an agreement, though talks remain ongoing.
While exploring a Leonard swap, the Clippers have reportedly shown no interest in pursuing Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown and do not intend to make a run at the 2024 Finals MVP this summer.
Free-Agency Interest Around the League
Washington Wizards: The club has expressed interest in bringing back former MVP Russell Westbrook. The 37-year-old guard spent the 2020-21 season in Washington and played for the Sacramento Kings last year.
Sacramento Kings: Sacramento plans to re-sign forward/center Precious Achiuwa, now an unrestricted free agent, and elevate wing Daeqwon Plowden from a two-way slot to a standard contract after making him a restricted free agent this week.
Los Angeles Lakers: The Lakers are expected to meet Tuesday with Jazz restricted free-agent center Walker Kessler, one of three scheduled meetings for the shot-blocker. Los Angeles also intends to sit down with Pistons RFA Jalen Duren.
Los Angeles Clippers: Denver Nuggets restricted free-agent forward Peyton Watson continues to be linked to L.A.
Spurs Eyeing Frontcourt Help
The San Antonio Spurs are targeting power forwards with their non-taxpayer mid-level exception. Candidates include Sandro Mamukelashvili, Tobias Harris, Dean Wade, Rui Hachimura and John Collins. Mamukelashvili, who declined his minimum-salary option with Toronto, is expected to draw multiple offers exceeding $10 million annually. The Lakers are also monitoring the Georgian big man.
Additional Raptors Notes
Toronto is expected to finalize a standard NBA contract with 2025 second-round pick Alijah Martin, who received a two-way qualifying offer and entered restricted free agency.
Brooklyn, Orlando, Chicago and Cleveland Updates
Brooklyn Nets: Brooklyn is viewed as a serious contender for free-agent center Moritz Wagner, whom Orlando had anticipated losing.
Orlando Magic: Despite waiving Jonathan Isaac earlier in the week, Orlando plans to re-sign the forward.
Chicago Bulls: If the Bulls land Norman Powell, the pact is expected to be a high-value, short-term deal. Chicago is also weighing the return of guard Anfernee Simons—who is drawing interest from Golden State and Boston—and has its eye on Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga. Cleveland is another potential landing spot for Kuminga but currently lacks significant spending power.
Cleveland Cavaliers: Cleveland decided to re-sign center Thomas Bryant in part because the Pacers were preparing to chase him. Indiana’s free-agency targets are believed to include Josh Okogie, Gary Trent Jr. and Kelly Oubre Jr.
Heat Considering Veteran Reinforcements
Miami is evaluating free-agent options that include Bradley Beal, Gabe Vincent and Khris Middleton, sources said.
Source: HoopsRumors
