Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard has informed the San Antonio Spurs that he would like to be traded. Leonard’s preferred destination is the Los Angeles Lakers but it is highly unlikely that Spurs general manager R.C Buford would trade him within the Western Conference. Unless of course Buford got an offer he couldn’t refuse.
So where will Leonard end up? Here are five destinations that make the most sense from a fantasy standpoint.
1. Philadelphia 76ers: Leonard would be a great fit playing alongside Ben Simmons and Joel Embiid. Philadelphia lacks a wing player who can score and defend. Leonard would fill that void. It’s debatable as to whether or not the Sixers have enough assists to land Leonard.
2. Boston Celtics: The Celtics on paper wouldn’t necessarily be a great fit but you would have to think that either Jaylen Brown (most likely) or Jayson Tatum would go back in the trade to bring Leonard to Boston. The Celtics attempted to trade for Leonard in February but the Spurs rebuffed the trade offer. Boston is best positioned to land Leonard because they have the most assets.
3. Washington Wizards: The Wizards would be a great fit because they lack a player like Leonard. They don’t have a forward who can score and defend like him. Leonard would be a terrific fit along John Wall and Bradley Beal. The Wizards would become a legit contender in the east if they could get Leonard. Unfortunately for Washington, they don’t have the assets to get a player of his caliber.
4. Cleveland Cavaliers: Want LeBron to stay? Go get Kawhi Leonard. It is a stretch but Cleveland might have enough ammo to make it happen. Think about it. The Cavs can build a package around the eighth pick, Kevin Love, Rodney Hood and future draft picks. San Antonio can trade Leonard and Pau Gasol to Cleveland. If that deal were to happen, I bet you LeBron re-signs.
5. San Antonio Spurs: Leonard irons out his differences with the Spurs, signs his five year, $219 million dollar super max deal and all is right again in San Antonio.
In the end, I wouldn’t be surprised if Leonard settled his differences with Gregg Popovich and stayed. That is highly unlikely. I think he gets traded. The question is, where? Time will tell but my guess is, it will be to a team in the east.