Free agent forward Kawhi Leonard is expected to return to the Clippers, but likely will at least listen to offers from rival teams, per Chris Haynes of Yahoo Sports.
In other words, Leonard’s final decision isn’t likely to come in a day, Haynes added.
“I don’t expect this to be a day-one signing,” he said. “I don’t expect this to be hashed out day one.”
Reports surfaced Sunday that Leonard is opting out of his contract. He could miss the start of next season after suffering a knee injury in the second round of the Western Conference playoffs.
Meawhile, per Sam Amick of The Athletic, the Clippers are operating as if Leonard will in fact return. Leonard as been in regular contact with the front office and has spent more time than usual at workouts for Clippers draft prospects, Amick reported.
Leonard averaged 24.8 points, 6.5 rebounds and 5.2 assists during the regular season and was even better in the playoffs. Against the Jazz in the playoffs, he averaged 27.3 points and 7.5 boards.
He underwent surgery for a partial ACL tear after the season.
"It looks like [Kawhi] is expected to re-sign with the Clippers, but sources informed me that he will listen to other teams."@ChrisBHaynes on Kawhi Leonard's free agency pic.twitter.com/gntyoqShap
— NBA TV (@NBATV) August 2, 2021
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