Kawhi Leonard’s Return to Toronto Spurs Speculation on Team Dynamics

Kawhi Leonard has returned to the Toronto Raptors after spending seven seasons with the Los Angeles Clippers. When Leonard initially left Toronto in 2019, he had led the team to its first NBA championship and sought similar success with the Clippers. However, the Clippers missed the playoffs in the 2025-26 season and exited in the first round for three consecutive years before that.

This situation raises questions about what could have happened if Leonard had remained with the Raptors. Back then, the team was centered around Leonard and Kyle Lowry, with experienced stars like Serge Ibaka, Marc Gasol, and Danny Green. Emerging talents such as Pascal Siakam, Fred VanVleet, OG Anunoby, and Norman Powell complemented the mix. Had Leonard stayed, the team might have continued to be a strong contender, and many of these players might still be part of the roster.

Instead, Leonard left, prompting the Raptors to rebuild. Now, he returns to a significantly different team. Among the new faces is RJ Barrett, a Toronto native and former No. 3 overall pick from the New York Knicks. On a recent podcast, Draymond Green discussed Leonard’s return and hinted that Barrett might be on the move. Green noted, “I bet you the Raptors feel like they have a chance mixing Kawhi with Scottie Barnes. I wouldn’t be surprised if you see RJ Barrett on the move at some point, just with how it’s starting to shape up with guys who need the basketball in their hands and different things.”

Green also pondered whether Leonard regrets leaving Toronto despite the various incentives offered to keep him back then.

Barrett played four and a half seasons with the Knicks before being traded to his hometown team, where he excelled. During the Raptors’ playoff series against the Cavaliers, Barrett emerged as the leading scorer, averaging 24.1 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game. At 26 years old, Barrett enters the final year of his contract, which will pay him $29.6 million next season, before he becomes an unrestricted free agent. Last year, he consistently scored 20 points per game and had a field goal percentage of 49.1%. These are the kind of stats that make him a valuable asset for any potential trade.

Yet, Barrett has rapidly become integral to the team’s spirit. Known for his strength and versatility, he plays with a fearless intensity that resonates with his teammates. His connection to Toronto adds another layer of significance. Unless the Raptors believe they can trade Barrett for a game-changing addition, it’s likely he will remain a pivotal player for the team.