Kawhi Leonard trade discussed by Mavericks, Clippers: Sources
The New York Times • • sports
Key Points:
- Dallas Mavericks president Masai Ujiri is interested in reuniting with Kawhi Leonard, with ongoing trade discussions involving the LA Clippers that could send Leonard to Dallas in exchange for P.J. Washington, Klay Thompson, and draft picks.
- Ujiri previously acquired Leonard for the Toronto Raptors in 2018, leading to a championship and Finals MVP honors for Leonard during the 2019 postseason.
- Leonard, who has one year left on his contract worth $50.3 million, averaged a career-high 27.9 points per game last season amid a salary cap investigation involving the Clippers.
- If the trade occurs, Leonard would join Kyrie Irving, returning from injury, and rookie Cooper Flagg, who had a standout debut season; however, Dallas has limited control over future draft picks due to past roster moves.
- The Mavericks struggled last season with a 26-56 record and poor offensive performance, so adding Leonard, a two-time Defensive Player of the Year, could significantly improve their competitiveness.
