Warriors among teams to check on Kawhi Leonard before deadline

The Golden State Warriors took a swing at the trade market before the deadline. One of the bigger names they checked on was Kawhi Leonard.

According to ESPN’s Anthony Slater and Ramona Shelburne, Golden State was among several teams that contacted the Los Angeles Clippers about Leonard before the deadline as the Clippers began reshaping their roster.

Los Angeles made its direction fairly clear. The Clippers moved both James Harden and Ivica Zubac at the deadline, signaling the start of what appears to be a new era for the franchise.

That led multiple teams to inquire about Leonard, who is under contract for one more season at $50.3 million. And despite nearing his mid-30s, Leonard is still playing at an elite level.

He is averaging 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 2.0 steals while posting a player efficiency rating of 27.4, his best mark since the 2016-17 season.

Leonard turns 35 in June, and the Clippers are expected to revisit his long-term future with the franchise this offseason.

Golden State explored several bigger swings at the deadline.

The Warriors were also linked to trade interest in Giannis Antetokounmpo and Jaren Jackson Jr. before ultimately landing Kristaps Porzingis in a deal with the Atlanta Hawks.

Not quite the same headline splash. But still a move the Warriors believe can help their playoff push.