Kawhi Leonard Facing Uncertain Future With Clippers

The Los Angeles Clippers face a long summer full of lingering question marks.

After trading away James Harden for Darius Garland and after finishing with a loss in the NBA Play-In Tournament, LA needs to figure out which direction they want to go.

A big question has emerged about the future of superstar Kawhi Leonard, and this isn't even taking into consideration the ongoing investigation due to the Aspiration situation.

Regarding Leonard, there is a scenario where the Clippers trade the superstar forward, according to Michael Scotto of Hoops Hype.

"With the Clippers trending towards a youth movement in their recent blockbuster transactions, rival executives are monitoring Leonard's future closely as the seven-time All-Star turns 35 in June," Scotto wrote.

"In fact, several executives have put Leonard and Giannis Antetokounmpo neck-and-neck for the best player to try to acquire on the trade market if Leonard indeed becomes available," Scotto added.

Leonard is still productive, and he averaged 27.9 points with 6.4 rebounds and 3.6 assists this season in 65 games, the second-most he's played in a season since he came to LA.

What Do the Clippers Do With the No. 5 Pick?

The Clippers almost lost their draft pick to the Indiana Pacers, but they lucked out and saw the pick fall to them at No. 5 in the NBA Draft lottery.

So, do the Clippers trade away the fifth pick and land a contributor who can push this team in one playoff race?

Or do the Clippers move Leonard and start a rebuild with their eyes on the future?

Scotto wrote that Illinois star Keaton Wagler is the consensus top choice for the Clippers with the No. 5 pick, if they decide to keep it.

What exactly Leonard could net in a trade remains to be seen, but contending teams might give up quite a bit to add Leonard in hopes of making an NBA title push.

There are a lot of options for the Clippers, and Leonard should be at the center of these discussions.

Related: Clippers' Assistant Linked to ACC Head Coaching Job

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This story was originally published May 25, 2026 at 9:50 AM.