Bobby Webster: Raptors still have room for another major move

The Raptors paid a considerable price to bring back Kawhi Leonard. Bobby Webster does not believe that emptied the cupboard.

Toronto’s president of basketball operations said the team still has enough draft capital and financial flexibility to pursue another major addition if the opportunity arises.

The Raptors sent the Clippers two first-round picks, two second-rounders and a first-round swap for Leonard earlier this month.

“We gave up some assets, but I think we’ve been disciplined over the last few years to not do that,” Webster told reporters Thursday. “We feel like we do still have a number of assets if we need to go make additional deals.”

Toronto owns a first-round pick in each of the next four drafts and sits only about $1 million above the luxury-tax line. That leaves the organization with options if Leonard’s arrival pushes the Raptors into contention.

“If we want to go for it, we still can go for it,” Webster said. “This is a bit of a swing, but I think there’s definitely more left on the bone.”

The Leonard deal was delayed for more than two months while the NBA investigated the Clippers for salary-cap circumvention. Webster said Toronto completed its due diligence and paused the trade because of its “risk tolerance.”

The Raptors never attempted to renegotiate after the league imposed sanctions on the Clippers.

“When you agree to the deal, you agree to the deal,” Webster said. “It’s a small industry that we all live in. You have your reputation, and I think that’s really important.”

Leonard subsequently signed a two-year, $115 million extension. Webster said both sides envisioned something beyond a brief reunion when the trade was initially arranged.

“He wanted to stay here for a while,” Webster said, via Michael Grange of Sportsnet. “We want to have a window here.”

Webster added that Leonard’s contract should not prevent Toronto from retaining RJ Barrett, who is entering the final year of his deal. He cited ownership’s willingness to spend when the team has a chance to contend.

There was also encouraging news on Jakob Poeltl. After back trouble limited the center to 46 games last season, Webster said Poeltl reported in good shape and appears motivated to remain healthy.