Kawhi Leonard Returns to Toronto!

Blake Murphy hosts an emergency pod with the reported news of the Toronto Raptors nearing a deal to bring back Kawhi Leonard for Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick and multiple future picks. Blake is joined by The Stein Line's Marc Stein (2:44) to sort through a potential contract extension with Kawhi and retiring in Toronto. Then, co-host Matt Bonner (13:47) stops by to get his thoughts on how the forward can adjust to Darko Rajaković's style of play, his injury concerns, how the team will perform if Kawhi isn't available, and who replaces Sandro Mamukelashvili's spark off the bench if he doesn't return. Next, Sportsnet's Michael Grange (30:31) weighs in on the level of risk the Raptors' front office is willing to get into, Bobby Webster's 'big swings', Scottie Barnes-Kawhi dynamic, and Sandro's free agency market. Next, JD Bunkis (52:46) on the fan perspective with the rumours that Kawhi was open to return to Toronto 7-years later, not signing back in 2019, and how the team will continue their offseason additions. Radio analyst Paul Jones (1:13:19) gives his take on the reported price at age 35, his relationship with Raptors' health staff including Alex McKechnie, winning games without Ingram and if Leonard sits out, and what else is needed for the roster. To wrap up, Raptors Republic's Samson Follk (1:28:11) looks at Kawhi's on-court fit, how RJ Barrett can benefit from his arrival, and how this can move Toronto's ceiling forward.

 

The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Rogers Sports & Media or any affiliate.