The Clippers certainly are committed to Leonard, President of Basketball Operations Lawrence Frank said this week, noting that they they’re hopeful for “a very long-term relationship with him.” Last season, Leonard made the All-NBA first team and then, in 11 playoff games, averaged 39.3 minutes, 30.3 points, 7.7 rebounds, 4.4 assists and 2.1 steals while shooting 57.3% from the field and 39.3% from 3-point range. All that would leave them without a lot of wiggle room to improve if Leonard doesn’t commit long-term. The Clippers since have committed $190 million to George over the next five seasons. In order to pair him with Paul George, they traded Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Danilo Gallinari and unprotected first-round picks in 2022, 20 and pick swap rights in 20 to Oklahoma City.
Leonard, who will be 31 and coming off of his second significant injury in his 10-year career, retains leverage: The Clippers mortgaged their future to successfully recruit him in free agency two years ago.
Now, the expectation is that Leonard will negotiate a new deal to stay with Clippers. Kawhi Leonard has declined his $36M player option for next season and becomes a free agent, per source. He could then decline that option next offseason and possibly secure a contract worth a historically lucrative $235 million over five seasons. He’s expected to return to the Clippers, possibly on a two-year deal with a player option worth $80.6 million. Kawhi Leonard (24.8 points per game, 6.5 rebounds, 5.2 assists, 1.6 steals) - Leonard said last December “the best decision” would be to decline his player option, indicating the move would make the most financial sense.
Other options who might fit include veteran players such as, say, Andre Iguodala or Rudy Gay, or perhaps even former Clippers such as Maurice Harkless and Jeff Green. to pursue a ring with the Clippers, with whom he’d have a more substantial role - especially in Leonard’s absence - than he would with the Lakers, who are also considered potential suitors. Who might they target? Perhaps DeMar DeRozan could be persuaded to come home to L.A.
Beyond that, they’ll have just the $5.9 million mid-level and minimum exceptions available to try to add depth on the wing in support of Paul George, to improve their rebounding and to look for the right fit at point guard.