It’s been over a year since Kawhi Leonard left the Toronto Raptors, but the memories of his incredible single season with the team still linger in the hearts and minds of fans. Leonard’s time in Toronto was short, but it was undeniably successful, as he led the Raptors to their first ever NBA championship. However, his departure from the team to join the Los Angeles Clippers left many fans wondering why he would leave a winning team for a struggling one. Recently, new details have emerged shedding light on Leonard’s decision and it turns out the Raptors had a good chance at bringing him back.
When Leonard was first traded to the Raptors in 2018, no one was quite sure how the season would pan out. He had just come off a tumultuous season with the San Antonio Spurs and there were concerns about his health and commitment to the game. However, Leonard quickly put those doubts to rest as he led the Raptors to one of their best seasons in franchise history. He averaged 26.6 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 3.3 assists, earning him the title of Finals MVP.
But even with all the success, there were still doubts about whether Leonard would stay with the Raptors after his contract ended. Many believed that his heart was set on playing in his hometown of Los Angeles, specifically for the Lakers. However, new reporting has revealed that the Raptors actually had a good chance of retaining Leonard, but certain factors ultimately swayed his decision to join the Clippers instead.
One of the main reasons cited for Leonard’s decision was his desire for privacy and control over his personal brand. Leonard is known for being a private person and during his time in Toronto, he was able to have a certain level of anonymity and freedom away from the media spotlight. The LA Lakers, being a high-profile team with stars such as LeBron James and Anthony Davis, would not have provided him with the same level of privacy. Furthermore, the Lakers also have a history of media scrutiny, something that Leonard wanted to avoid.
Another factor that played a role in Leonard’s decision was his trust in the Raptors organization. Throughout the season, Leonard developed a strong bond with his coach, Nick Nurse, and the rest of the team. He appreciated the organization’s approach towards his health and well-being, allowing him to have load management and not pushing him to play when he wasn’t fully recovered. This level of trust and support made the Raptors a strong contender in retaining Leonard.
In the end, it ultimately came down to the Clippers being closer to home for Leonard and the opportunity to play alongside another superstar, Paul George. While the Raptors had a good chance of bringing him back, they couldn’t compete with the lure of playing in his hometown and the chance to team up with a fellow MVP-caliber player.
Despite the disappointment of losing Leonard, the Raptors organization and fans hold no ill will towards him. They are grateful for the incredible season he gave them and for bringing a championship to the city of Toronto. In fact, many would argue that Leonard’s decision to leave has only made the Raptors stronger and more determined to defend their title in the upcoming season.
In conclusion, while many were left baffled by Kawhi Leonard’s decision to leave the Toronto Raptors for the Los Angeles Clippers, new reporting has revealed that the Raptors actually had a good chance at bringing him back. However, factors such as his desire for privacy and trust in the Raptors organization ultimately led him to join the Clippers. Nevertheless, the memories of his time in Toronto and the legacy he left behind will forever be cherished by fans. The Raptors may have lost a star player, but their championship-winning mentality remains intact and they are determined to continue their success without Leonard on their roster.
