What began as offseason drama and controversy around Kawhi Leonard has now turned into uncertainty about how much longer his time with the Los Angeles Clippers will last.
Under his current deal, Leonard holds a three-year, approximately $149.7 million extension that runs through the 2026-27 season with no player option. He cannot reach unrestricted free agency until 2027 unless the Clippers act through a trade or buyout.
The Clippers made Leonard the centerpiece knowing both the upside and the baggage. He has given them flashes of what they dreamed about, and while there is still a chance to chase another run, too many seasons have ended the same way. Now, the team appears ready to move in another direction, according to a former Clippers staffer.
“Multiple GMs and other league executives said they expect Leonard to play out his contract with the Clippers, which is set to end after the 2026-27 season. But even then, one former staffer said, the organization’s focus has shifted. ‘They’re done building around [Kawhi],’ he said. ‘They know that and he knows that.’”
