Kawhi Leonard changes agents, set to begin extension talks with Raptors

July 6, 2026

Kawhi Leonard’s return to the Raptors is not yet official, but he’s already getting ready for what could be the final major contract of his NBA career.

According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Leonard has hired Harrison Gaines of SLASH Sports to represent him in upcoming extension talks with Toronto.

Charania reported that negotiations are expected to begin within the next few days, adding that Gaines has served as Leonard’s business attorney over the past year.

The timing isn’t surprising.

Leonard is entering the final season of his current contract and, according to ESPN salary cap expert Bobby Marks, is eligible to sign an extension worth up to $123.7 million over two years.

The new representation also marks the end of a longtime arrangement.

Leonard had previously been represented by Mitch Frankel, along with his uncle and longtime advisor, Dennis Robertson. Frankel negotiated Leonard’s contracts with the Clippers, including the three-year extension he signed in 2024.

Now comes what could be Leonard’s last big payday.

The 35-year-old is set to earn $50.3 million this season, and Charania reported that Toronto’s willingness to offer an extension was one of the biggest reasons Leonard pushed for a return to the Raptors.

The blockbuster trade, agreed to last week, sends Leonard back to Toronto in exchange for Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, unprotected first-round picks in 2031 and 2033, a first-round pick swap in 2027 and two second-round selections.

Leonard’s desire to return north of the border also shaped the trade market.

According to Charania, several teams expressed interest before the NBA Draft. But once it became clear Leonard wasn’t interested in signing a long-term extension anywhere other than Toronto, clubs such as the Timberwolves and Pistons backed away.

There were basketball reasons behind the decision, too.

Leonard’s familiarity with the organization, his appreciation for the city and his belief the Raptors can emerge as legitimate contenders in the Eastern Conference all factored into the move.

MORE HOOPS | NBA free agents by position