How The Warriors Trade For Kawhi Leonard
Leonard also makes sense for the Warriors and is one of the more optimal short-term solutions. Leonard is on an expiring $50.3 million deal in 2026-27, and the 34-year-old produced a career-high 27.9 points a game. Like James, Leonard would take pressure off Curry, though he is a better scorer at this stage. He’s always been the better defender and 3-point shooter.
At first glance, the Warriors don’t have a clear path to acquire Leonard unless one of Green, Butler, or Porzingis is involved. Porzingis would have to be included in a sign-and-trade as he’s a free agent and the Warriors hold his Bird Rights.
However, the Clippers’ guaranteed salary is only $118 million for the upcoming season. With Ivica Zubac no longer in LA after being dealt to the Indiana Pacers in February, the Clippers may seriously consider bringing the 30-year-old in. The Clippers, who received the No. 5 pick in this year’s draft from Indiana, project to be $2.7 million under the cap.
Warriors Receive:
Kawhi Leonard
Clippers Receive:
De’Anthony Melton
Kristaps Porzingis (sign-and-trade)
2026 first-round pick (No. 11)
2029 first-round pick
