Kawhi Leonard talks with Clippers stalling, Heat reportedly moving in
The Miami Heat acquired Giannis Antetokounmpo from the Milwaukee Bucks in one of the biggest trades in recent NBA history, but the organization’s offseason is not finished. Multiple reports indicate the Heat have had discussions about acquiring Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard.
Sam Amick of The Athletic reported that the Heat had Leonard on their contingency list ahead of the Giannis deal in case the Bucks pursuit fell through. With Antetokounmpo now in Miami, the context has shifted: the Heat would be attempting to surround him with another All-Star wing rather than replace him.
NBA insider Brandin Robinson added that Leonard “wants” to play for the Heat, a detail that adds dimension beyond Miami’s interest being one-sided.
Clippers governor Ballmer has been firm about keeping Leonard
Leonard, who turns 35 on June 29, just finished one of the best seasons of his career, averaging 27.9 points on 50.5 percent shooting and finishing seventh in MVP voting. He enters the final year of his contract at $50.3 million. Clippers governor Steve Ballmer had “maintained a firm stance” against trading him, but per Bleacher Report’s Chris Haynes, there is now a sense within the league that the Clippers will “look to move” Leonard if they are unable to agree on an extension.
The NBA has an ongoing investigation into the Clippers for allegedly circumventing the salary cap to pay Leonard, and any team that acquires him could absorb whatever penalties follow.
About The Author
