The Toronto Raptors made headlines on Tuesday with a significant trade, bringing back their celebrated star Kawhi Leonard. In exchange, the team gave up Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, unprotected first-round picks for 2031 and 2033, second-round picks in 2030 and 2033, and a 2027 first-round swap. This substantial price reflects the value Leonard holds for the Raptors, despite his age of 35. Although Leonard initially wanted to remain with the Los Angeles Clippers, the team was hesitant to make a long-term commitment. Leonard, currently on an expiring contract, is set to earn $50.3 million next season. The Raptors have promptly extended an offer for a two-year extension, securing Leonard until the 2028-29 season in Toronto.

Kawhi Leonard’s interest in staying with the Raptors is a surprise. Seven years ago, he left the team despite creating unforgettable moments in Raptors’ history. His remarkable contribution includes the iconic Game 7 buzzer-beater against the Philadelphia 76ers in the 2019 Eastern Conference semifinals. The fadeaway shot over Joel Embiid is legendary, with the ball bouncing off the rim multiple times before going in, marking the first Game 7 series-winning shot in NBA playoff history.

During that postseason, Leonard averaged 30.5 points, 9.1 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 1.7 steals over 24 games, ultimately leading the Raptors to their first NBA championship. He earned the Finals MVP award, becoming the 12th player in NBA history to do so with multiple teams, having previously won with the San Antonio Spurs in 2014. His 2019 playoff achievements remain a cherished topic among Raptors fans.

This time, Leonard will join a younger team core featuring Scottie Barnes, a two-time All-Star, and RJ Barrett, a Toronto native who averaged 24.1 points per game during the last playoffs. The team also includes promising rookie Collin Murray Boyles, sharpshooting guard Ja’Kobe Walter, and defensive expert Jamal Shead. Leonard’s trade is expected to place the Raptors as strong contenders in the Eastern Conference.

There’s additional speculation surrounding Kyle Lowry. He expressed his desire to “sign a one-day contract and retire as a Raptor.” Having played only 14 games last season with the 76ers, he has yet to decide on retirement. There’s a possibility that he might join the Raptors again on a veteran minimum contract (approximately $3.8 million) to have another season with Leonard. Lowry’s return would bring invaluable experience and leadership to the Raptors, having been a pivotal figure in their 2019 championship victory.