The Toronto Raptors’ 2018 trade for Kawhi Leonard remains one of the most pivotal moments in NBA history. While the move delivered the franchise its first NBA Championship, a lingering narrative has followed: Did the Raptors only acquire Kawhi because they knew he wouldn’t stay long-term?

This article breaks down the facts, the context behind the deal, and why the Raptors made the bold gamble that ultimately paid off.

The Kawhi Leonard Trade That Shocked The NBA

In July 2018, the Raptors traded franchise cornerstone DeMar DeRozan, Jakob Poeltl, and a protected 2019 first-round pick to the San Antonio Spurs for Kawhi Leonard and Danny Green.

At the time: • Leonard was coming off a season where he only played nine games due to a lingering quad injury. • Reports suggested he wanted to

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