A Kawhi Leonard trade could reshape the LA Clippers’ future after a disappointing end to the 2026 NBA season. Following a statistically career year from Leonard, new avenues have arguably opened up for the franchise, which at one point seemed destined for years of mediocrity.
For many, Leonard’s contract as well as the abundance of draft capital surrendered to the OKC Thunder in the Paul George trade meant that this franchise was restricted in the moves it made this offseason. Despite this, upon the Indiana Pacers’ 2026 draft pick conveying to LA and Leonard’s impressive resurgence restoring much of his trade value, a Leonard trade may not be as far-fetched as originally thought.
Rather than being locked into an aging core with limited flexibility, the Clippers now have a potential reset button. Moving Leonard would not only allow the franchise to recoup assets after years of draft capital being sent out, but also give the front office a chance to reshape the roster around a younger, more sustainable timeline.
Kawhi Leonard Trade: 3 Potential Landing Spots
Philadelphia 76ers
Clippers receive: Joel Embiid, 2028 unprotected LAC first-round pick
76ers receive: Kawhi Leonard, Isaiah Jackson
Despite being a bold move, this trade with the 76ers would not be entirely illogical. In this scenario, LA pivots from Leonard to Embiid whilst retaining one of their own first-round picks. For the Clippers, the appeal of this framework is not necessarily Embiid himself, but what comes attached to him. Regaining control of their 2028 first-round pick while already owning a top-five selection this year would give Los Angeles the foundation needed to begin a genuine rebuild.
After years of limited flexibility and draft capital moving out of the franchise, retaining one of their own future picks would allow the Clippers to regain control over their long-term direction. Alongside young assets such as Darius Garland and Bennedict Mathurin, the Clippers could suddenly be looking at the early stages of a new core within just a few years.
Embiid’s contract would obviously be the major concern. With four years remaining and a significant injury history, taking on that level of money would be a serious risk. However, that same uncertainty could also serve a purpose for a rebuilding Clippers team. If Embiid is unable to play consistently, LA would likely remain near the bottom of the standings, improving its lottery odds while still having a high-level veteran presence in the building. In that role, Embiid could also act as a mentor for Yanic Konan Niederhauser as the Clippers develop their next frontcourt piece.
The trade also makes sense for the 76ers, a team that also seems to be positioned in a situation without clear direction. The trade allows the team to get off of Embiid’s contract, taking on a shorter Leonard deal. Leonard also seemingly fits alongside the core of Tyrese Maxey and VJ Edgecombe, who together could make a push in an open Eastern Conference.
San Antonio Spurs
Clippers receive: Devin Vassell, Keldon Johnson, 2030 first-round pick (Dallas or Minnesota swap)
Spurs receive: Kawhi Leonard
From the Clippers’ perspective, this deal would give them two younger pieces who can contribute immediately while still fitting a longer-term rebuild. Johnson, coming off a Sixth Man of the Year campaign, would provide scoring, physicality, and downhill pressure on the wing. Vassell, meanwhile, offers the type of two-way skill set every rebuilding team needs, providing versatile defense, floor spacing, and the ability to grow into a larger offensive role. Adding a future first-round pick, even with swap conditions attached, would further strengthen LA’s asset base as it looks to build a younger core.
For San Antonio, a Leonard reunion would make sense if the franchise falls short in the Western Conference Finals. The Spurs have already shown they are close, but their youth has also been exposed on the biggest stage. Adding Leonard would give them a proven playoff scorer and elite defender without forcing them to break up their core. His presence would ease the offensive and defensive burden on their younger players, allowing them to develop in a more balanced environment while still pushing the team closer to championship contention.
Golden State Warriors
Clippers receive: Jimmy Butler, 2028 first-round pick, 2032 first-round pick
Warriors receive: Kawhi Leonard
For the Clippers, Butler’s inclusion would largely be about making the money work rather than being the centerpiece of the return due to his injury. At this stage, the real value of the deal would come through the two first-round picks attached. The fact that those selections arrive further down the line should be viewed as a strength, not a drawback. By 2028 and especially 2032, the Warriors’ current core may have aged out, potentially making those picks far more valuable than they appear in the present.
For the Golden State Warriors, this would be an all-in move designed around one final push with Stephen Curry. Swapping Butler for Leonard would give the Warriors a cleaner star fit alongside Curry, adding elite shot creation, playoff scoring, and high-level wing defense. More importantly, it would signal a commitment to honoring the final stage of Curry’s prime by giving him one more legitimate chance at competing for a championship.
Featured Image: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
