In a move that solidifies their championship ambitions, the LA Clippers have secured the long-term future of their superstar, Kawhi Leonard. The franchise announced a hefty three-year contract extension worth $149.5 million with the two-time NBA Finals MVP in January 2024, ensuring his presence on the roster through the 2026-27 season.
From Toronto Triumph to LA Homecoming
Kawhi Leonard's journey to this massive payday is a tale of strategic moves and ultimate success. After a legendary 2018-19 season with the Toronto Raptors, where he led the team to its first-ever NBA championship and won his second Finals MVP, Leonard sought a move closer to his home. He chose the LA Clippers, but with a crucial condition: the team had to acquire another star. The Clippers delivered, executing a blockbuster trade for Paul George.
Leonard initially joined the Clippers in 2019 on a 3-year, $103 million deal. His impact was immediate, leading to a subsequent maximum extension worth $176 million. The latest deal, signed on January 14, 2024, is a three-year veteran extension that reaffirms the mutual commitment between the player and the ambitious franchise owned by Steve Ballmer.
Breaking Down the $149.5 Million Contract Numbers
The financial details of Kawhi Leonard's new contract are staggering. The 3-year, $149.5 million extension guarantees him an average annual salary of approximately $49 million. For the 2024-25 season, his earnings are set at around $49 million. This will rise to $50 million for the 2025-26 season and $50.3 million for the final year, 2026-27.
This contract is a testament to his elite status. By the time this deal concludes, Leonard's total career on-court earnings are projected to soar past the $425 million mark, placing him among the highest earners in NBA history. Notably, this contract contains no player option, meaning Leonard is fully committed to the Clippers until 2027, providing immense stability for the team and its fans.
Salary Cap Implications and Championship Hopes
While securing a player of Kawhi Leonard's calibre is a coup, the contract presents a significant challenge for the Clippers' front office. Carrying a cap hit of roughly $50 million per season for a superstar with an injury history means the team will likely be a permanent resident in the luxury tax zone.
However, by signing for slightly less than his absolute maximum allowable salary, Leonard provided the team with crucial financial breathing room. This flexibility was vital in retaining other key players like James Harden and building a deep roster capable of contending for a title. The deal is a clear statement from owner Steve Ballmer: he is willing to pay a premium for elite talent and chase the championship dream.
For Clippers fans, the extension ends years of speculation and "opt-out" rumours. The focus now shifts entirely to Leonard's health and performance. If he can stay fit and maintain his dominant two-way play, this massive financial investment could finally lead the Clippers to the promised land of an NBA championship.
