Kawhi Leonard trade: Toronto Raptors star to sign for Lakers? Magic Johnson to make bid
KAWHI LEONARD trade rumours continue to circulate with the Toronto Raptors star interesting the LA Lakers under the stewardship of Magic Johnson.
NBA: Kawhi Leonard WON’T re-sign with Raptors claims pundit
Kawhi Leonard has been tipped to join the LA Lakers in 2019 with Magic Johnson keen to add weapons alongside LeBron James.
The Toronto Raptors superstar is enjoying a big year in Canada but only signed a one-year deal with the side.
Leonard will attract major attention this summer with Lakers president Magic eyeing up a big move for the small forward.
ESPN’s Brian Windhorst made the claims surrounding Leonard’s future.
He said: “I’ve been told Magic wants a chance this summer to convince Kevin Durant or Kawhi [Leonard] to come to the Lakers.
“It seems very unlikely they trade for an All-Star this season unless Anthony Davis were to become available.”
Leonard has been linked with several huge moves following a string of big displays for the Raptors.
The 27-year-old appears destined for Los Angeles but the LA Clippers could rival the Lakers for his signature.
Any team that does aim for Leonard will need to fork out a huge contract for the NBA star.
He is currently earning around £16million ($21m) for his season in Toronto but may expect significantly higher when floated on the free agency market.
Leonard racked up a staggering 41 points in 45 minutes of action against the Washington Wizards at the weekend.
He could claw his way into the MVP reckoning if the Raptors continue their terrific form at the top of the Eastern Conference and make a deep run into the play-offs.
NBA 2019 Championship winners odds
Golden State Warriors – 4/7
Toronto Raptors – 7/1
Boston Celtics – 10/1
Houston Rockets – 12/1
Philadelphia 76ers – 16/1
Los Angeles Lakers – 20/1