The Golden State Warriors were among several NBA teams that checked on the availability of Kawhi Leonard prior to the league’s trade deadline, according to ESPN’s Anthony Slater and Ramona Shelburne.
League sources told ESPN that Golden State reached out to the Los Angeles Clippers as the Clippers began reshaping their roster. Los Angeles dealt James Harden and Ivica Zubac at the deadline, signaling a potential shift in direction and prompting inquiries from multiple clubs about Leonard’s status.
Leonard, 34, is signed for one more season at $50.3 million. Despite approaching his mid-30s, the forward is producing at an elite level, averaging 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 2.0 steals per game with a player efficiency rating of 27.4—his best mark since the 2016-17 campaign.
The Clippers are expected to reassess Leonard’s long-term future with the franchise during the offseason. He turns 35 in June.
Golden State explored several high-profile possibilities before the deadline. In addition to Leonard, the Warriors were linked to Giannis Antetokounmpo and Jaren Jackson Jr. They ultimately acquired Kristaps Porzingis from the Atlanta Hawks, a move the organization believes will bolster its playoff push.
Source: Hoops Wire
