Kawhi Leonard-Clippers: is a split coming? Chris Haynes: “Extension or trade”
The Los Angeles Clippers are facing a pivotal decision regarding Kawhi Leonard’s future, with a contract extension or a potential trade emerging as the two primary options
The good fortune of the 2026 NBA Draft Lottery allowed the Los Angeles Clippers, aided in part by what may have been overly generous concessions from the Indiana Pacers in the deal for Ivica Zubac, to land a prospect of Keaton Wagler’s caliber with the fifth overall pick. The outcome could encourage the franchise to focus more aggressively on the future, potentially closing the chapter on its recent past.
That is the latest report from NBA insider Chris Haynes, who revealed that the Clippers’ front office faces a significant crossroads with Kawhi Leonard entering the final year of his contract. The organization must decide whether to move forward with an extension or begin exploring trade discussions with other teams. The decision ultimately depends on the level of confidence the franchise still has in the two-time NBA champion.
If an extension isn’t close to being finalized… I expect the Clippers to look into trading Kawhi. I don’t expect him to stay and play out an expiring contract
Chris Haynes
Last season provided encouraging signs regarding Leonard’s health and saw him improve his production compared to recent years. For that reason, the Clippers may also be willing to evaluate potential trade scenarios.
Moving their franchise star could now yield a valuable package of assets – something that would have seemed unlikely a year ago. Those assets would not be available if John Collins, now a free agent, were to leave, if Bogdan Bogdanovic returned to Europe, or if Leonard simply departed in free agency in 2027.
Finding interested suitors, however, will not be easy. Leonard’s injury history remains a legitimate concern, especially at 35 years old. It is a question mark that only a healthy offseason – and perhaps a bit of luck – can help alleviate.