The Golden State Warriors remain firmly in the market for another star, and Kawhi Leonard sits high on their wish list as the NBA Draft approaches. Multiple reports have linked Golden State to the Los Angeles Clippers forward. Yahoo Sports insider Kevin O'Connor indicates that the franchise's interest has not faded despite months of speculation and uncertainty surrounding Leonard's future.
Why the Golden State Warriors Are Monitoring Kawhi Leonard
Golden State enters the offseason in a win-now mode built around Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and newly extended head coach Steve Kerr. With Jimmy Butler III recovering from a torn ACL and potentially unavailable to begin the 2026-27 campaign, the Warriors are exploring avenues to add proven talent.
The Warriors' interest in Leonard dates back to the trade deadline and appears to remain active entering draft week. O'Connor recently reiterated that Golden State continues to pursue the six-time All-Star despite reports connecting the team to younger options.
"I do think the Warriors still want Kawhi Leonard. I still think the Warriors are still going for Kawhi Leonard... I don't think this Warriors' love for Kawhi Leonard has declined at all. It's just a matter of if the Clippers are going to decide to go young," O'Connor said.
Golden State owns the No. 11 pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, a potentially valuable asset in any negotiations. The Warriors are seeking players who can help maximize the remaining championship window of Curry's era, and Leonard fits that timeline.
What Insiders Are Saying About Kawhi Leonard's Potential Trade
While Clippers owner Steve Ballmer has publicly maintained that Leonard remains central to the franchise's plans, some league observers believe circumstances could change. "There are some people around the league that I've talked to who have indicated that they might just be trying to leverage their way into getting more back," O'Connor added.
The Clippers have made several moves that suggest a younger roster direction, including trades involving James Harden and Ivica Zubac while adding younger talent such as Bennedict Mathurin and Darius Garland. Landing the No. 5 overall pick in the draft has only fueled speculation that the organization could consider longer-term planning.
Fellow NBA insider Tom Haberstroh also questioned whether Leonard's trade value could ever be higher. "There isn't a better time than right now to trade Kawhi Leonard, where he has top value, he's healthy, playing at a high level," Haberstroh said.
What Would Kawhi Leonard's Trade Mean for the Warriors?
For Golden State, acquiring Leonard would represent an aggressive attempt to compete immediately in the Western Conference. His defensive versatility and scoring efficiency would give Curry another elite running mate while reducing pressure on an aging core.
A deal would not come cheaply. Leonard's $50.3 million salary would require significant matching contracts and likely involve premium assets, including draft capital. The Warriors must also weigh alternative targets such as Trey Murphy III, whom league insiders have identified as a more attainable option.
What Would Kawhi Leonard's Trade Mean for the Clippers?
If Los Angeles were to move Leonard, it would signal a major organizational shift. The Clippers could add younger players, future draft assets, and increased financial flexibility while accelerating a retool around emerging talent. Such a move would also reduce long-term risk tied to Leonard's age and injury history, particularly with his current contract nearing expiration.
Kawhi Leonard's Contract and Salary Cap
Leonard is entering the final season of his three-year, fully guaranteed $149.5 million extension signed in January 2024. His salaries are $49.2 million in 2024-25, $50.0 million in 2025-26, and $50.3 million in 2026-27. The contract contains no player option and includes a 15 percent trade kicker. Any acquiring team would need to absorb one of the league's largest salaries, making trade construction a complex exercise under current salary-cap rules.
Kawhi Leonard's Stats
In the 2025-26 season, Leonard averaged 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 3.6 assists while shooting 50.5 percent from the field. The 34-year-old is a two-time NBA champion, two-time Finals MVP, seven-time All-NBA selection, seven-time All-Defensive Team member, two-time Defensive Player of the Year, and a member of the NBA 75th Anniversary Team. His combination of elite defense, efficient scoring, and playoff success continues to make him one of the league's most respected veterans.
