One Piece Away?
There are several playoff contenders that would move into the plane of title-contenders with a Leonard trade.
Though already soaring, the Atlanta Hawks could reach a new altitude by using their trade pieces, giving Jalen Johnson an All-Star tag team partner. The Detroit Pistons have been racing through on-court adversity and Leonard could significantly reduce Cade Cunningham‘s offensive burden. The Orlando Magic may be more consistent if they shuffle the deck, giving Paolo Banchero a star to lean on.
Hunting a player of Leonard’s caliber could be enough to pacify Milwaukee Bucks trade candidate Giannis Antetokounmpo. With Damian Lillard and Jrue Holiday on the roster, the Portland Trail Blazers could push in their chips for a title run. Minnesota Timberwolves forward Julius Randle has done well with his new pack but they’re overreliant on Jaden McDaniels‘s 3-ball. In Louisiana, Leonard would provide the New Orleans Pelicans with everything Zion Williamson doesn’t give them.
Then there’s the Miami Heat, who simply need a fire lit under them. Right now, their primary trade target appears to be Antetokounmpo. However, in the event that one of his many other suitors wins the sweepstakes, Leonard’s an intriguing pivot. His lack of durability is sure to irk Heat president Pat Riley on some level. At the same time, even Antetokounmpo is having trouble staying on the court these days.
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