Kawhi Leonard returns to Toronto Raptors after NBA investigation

“Bonjour tout le monde, merci d’être venus. Je suis heureux d’être ici,” Leonard said to open the session without waiting for an initial prompt. “I know why some of you came. You want to hear about the investigation, but you know, after talking with the NBA and the NBPA, I think the best decision is to move forward and focus on being a Toronto Raptor.”

Closing the Chapter on the Clippers Investigation

Leonard’s future in Toronto had remained in limbo while the league investigated salary-cap circumvention allegations concerning his time with the LA Clippers. The NBA announced its disciplinary rulings in early September, targeting his former organization and clearing the procedural path for his move back to Canada.

Reflecting on the preceding weeks, the veteran forward acknowledged the toll of the protracted process. “I’ve already been a distraction for the last 70 days and I haven’t been able to meet my teammates, nor participate in the minicamp with them. From now on, I only want to talk about the Toronto Raptors,” Leonard said, effectively drawing a line under the ordeal.

Stepping Into a Leadership Role with a Young Roster

Entering his 14th NBA season, Leonard arrives as the oldest and most experienced player on a Toronto roster coming off a first-round playoff exit that ended in a Game 7 defeat. Darko Rajakovic takes over a youthful group praised by Leonard for its defensive intensity and pace in transition.

“I think what I’ve accomplished earns me the respect of the players. So I have to be a leader, lead by example, and serve as eyes and ears on the floor for Darko,” Leonard said. “I’m going to be a guide, try to help the guys progress. The rookies, or anyone else needing help, I’m here. I’m a good teammate, a cool guy.”

Balancing Health and High Expectations

Rajakovic noted during the media availability that the coaching staff will need to manage Leonard carefully given his history with injuries, despite humorous suggestions from the sideline about playing every minute of an 82-game schedule. Leonard appeared in 65 games last season for the Clippers, averaging a career-high 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.9 steals per contest.

The forward returns to an affectionate local fanbase in Toronto, where the popular “Ka’Wine and Dine” promotion—offering complimentary meals at participating area restaurants—has reportedly been revived. Leonard expressed amusement at the local hospitality while reiterating his competitive drive.

“I need pressure, I like being in a winning environment, and I feel like they offer me that here,” Leonard said.