NBA
The State Of Kawhi Leonard And The Los Angeles Lakers
The NBA world stood still waiting to see where two time Defensive Player of the Year Kawhi Leonard would be playing this upcoming season. Constant rumors linked Leonard being traded to the Los Angeles Lakers, Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers. Leonard’s camp has made it clear that he wants to be with the Lakers. On July 18, he wish to be traded from the San Antonio Spurs was granted, as he was sent to the Toronto Raptors. This was not the most ideal situation for him, but recent reports from San Antonio Express-News suggest that Leonard will have an open mind about on potentially re-signing with the Raptors.
The Lakers have been in a very similar situation before and must proceed with caution. Entering the final year of his contract, everybody assumed Paul George was going to be with the Lakers as well. Unfortunately for Magic Johnson, George did not even give the Lakers a meeting. He re-signed with the Oklahoma City Thunder. The deal was a four-year, $137 million contract. George explained he wanted to play for the Lakers, but preferred that they had traded for him while he was with the Indiana Pacers. This raises a very important question for the Lakers. Should Johnson pull the trigger on a trade come trade deadline time or take another risk and wait until free agency?
Trade
The Spurs demanded a heavy package for Leonard from the Lakers. Reports suggest the trade would’ve involved Brandon Ingram, Kyle Kuzma, Josh Hart, two first round picks, and two two draft pick swaps. The front office of the Lakers were not willing to give them the package they wanted. Ingram and Kuzma have proven they can be starters in this league and are still developing. Hart has shown in his rookie year and summer league he can be a solid role player for the Lakers.
Now that Leonard is with the Raptors, it would be safe to say they would not have such high demands in a trade for Leonard. His trade value is decreasing by the day due to his health. Nobody really knows just how healthy he really is. Johnson felt too safe with George, and must be careful in assessing the Leonard situation. The last thing Johnson wants is to miss out on a player of Leonard’s caliber.
A trade for Leonard might just make sense for the Lakers moving forward. Should they sign him in free agency, their front court would be loaded with not enough minutes for everybody. Another piece of information the Lakers must consider is that there are conflicting reports as to whether to not Leonard wants to play with LeBron James. Should a trade or signing for Leonard occur, the Lakers must figure that situation out. A potential trade for him now would not hurt the Lakers as much as some may think. A realistic package could include Ingram or Kuzma, Hart and two first round picks. Also, the veterans the Lakers signed on one-year deals can be used as chips in a trade.
The Verdict
The Lakers have more leverage in this situation than most people think. Johnson can get Leonard in either February or July assuming that the Lakers really are really his preferred situation. Many writers and insiders for the Lakers including myself believe waiting for Leonard’s upcoming free agency is the best move. James played a role in signing Lance Stephenson, Rajon Rondo and Javale McGee. The Lakers should let this year play out and not rush the process since they are not the favorites to win the west.
The best case scenario would be to have James and Leonard play alongside the young core. There is no need to trade for Leonard in February, especially if by then he is already fed up with the Raptors. The Lakers have leverage over the Los Angeles Clippers in the Leonard situation. Playing with the Lakers is reportedly Leonard’s top priority, and rumors are swirling of the Clippers leaving the city entirely. Also, James and Leonard have the ability to build to next great Lakers dynasty. The ball is in Johnson’s court. Now, he must remain patient and let this season pan out and swing for the fences again next summer.
