Kawhi Leonard Speculations: Is the Ex-Spurs Superstar Actually Staying with the Raptors?

Kawhi Leonard is looking to be in spectacular shape this season as the Toronto Raptors are off to a great start, snagging seven wins and only suffering a single loss so far. The Raptors’ latest game was against Joel Embiid and the Philadelphia 76ers, where the Canadian team won in decisive fashion.

Although Kawhi Leonard is fitting in nicely with his current team, the speculation about him being an unrestricted free agent next summer is still being talked about. The initial speculations were heavily leaning towards the possibility of the ex-Spurs superstar leaving the Raptors and joining either the L.A. Clippers or the L.A. Lakers.

Now, the narrative is slowly shifting, with several NBA analysts saying that Kawhi Leonard might be staying in Toronto after all. Among such experts is retired NBA talent Kevin McHale, The Daily Express reported.

“It is funny because Kyle Lowry doesn’t answer any phone calls from the team because he is really upset [about DeRozan's exit],” McHale told NBA TV. “[But now] he is calling up DeMar and saying ‘This guy we have got can really play’. He is special. I think everything is just set up for him. If they win enough then it’s hard to leave places where you’re winning.” Indeed, Kawhi Leonard himself seems to be adjusting pretty well to his role and fellow teammates.

The reticent star is currently proving why he’s a two-time Defensive Player of the Year awardee. So far, Kawhi Leonard is averaging 7.8 rebounds and 2.0 steals this season, while still remaining a primary offensive threat.

At first, analysts and fans assumed that the Raptors would have difficulty having Kawhi Leonard adjust in their lineup given that they have a new head coach this season. However, those speculations were quickly shot down by Leonard as he proved that he can play the role given to him by the Raptors.

There’s also the fact Kawhi Leonard and Raptors head coach Nick Nurse immediately found middle ground regarding what they’re going to do moving forward. With all these on the table and a possible shot at winning the Eastern Conference finals and playing for the Playoffs trophy, Kawhi Leonard may opt to sign with the Raptors in the long run.

McHale said it best. It’s difficult to leave a team when a player is with a roster that is currently bulldozing the opposing factions one after the other. Of course, the possibility of transferring to another team is still there. But right now, the signs have it that the Raptors’ previous gamble may have paid off and Kawhi Leonard may very well be the next face of the franchise for years to come.