Brandon Ingram Is What the Clippers Want and It Means Kawhi Leonard Is Already Gone

Alright, Seattle, listen up, because the NBA rumor mill is absolutely *churning* and some massive seismic shifts are about to hit the Western Conference. Forget about the Mariners for a sec, because the talk around the league right now is all about Kawhi Leonard, and it looks like his time in Los Angeles is wrapping up. Multiple sources, including Marc Stein and Jake Fischer, are telling us the Clippers and Raptors are deep in trade talks for the superstar forward. This isn't just chatter, folks, this is the real deal, and it's going to reshape the landscape.

The Raptors Are Coming For Kawhi, And LA Has A Plan B

So, here's the kicker: Kawhi Leonard is reportedly *willing* to sign an extension if he lands with the Toronto Raptors. That's huge, right? It means this isn't just a rental, it's a long-term play. While the Clippers were apparently "lukewarm" on the initial package the Raptors put on the table, it looks like there's one name that's got their attention: Brandon Ingram. Ingram, an All-Star just last season, holds some serious appeal for LA. Why? Because the Clippers want to stay competitive in the West, but they're also looking to get younger at the same time. That's a tricky balance to strike, but Ingram could be their guy. Sorry, Mavs fans, despite Dallas showing some interest, it sounds like they're not a viable landing spot for Kawhi at this point.

Clippers Ponder Futures, Free Agency Frenzy Erupts

Beyond the Kawhi-Ingram blockbuster, the Clippers are also keeping their options wide open. They might even operate as a cap-space team,

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which would be a huge pivot. Plus, they haven't ruled out re-signing big man John Collins, who's an unrestricted free agent. Over in Orlando, the Magic are expected to hang onto Goga Bitadze, a big man the Clippers apparently had their eye on. Why? Because Orlando is bracing for the possibility of losing Moritz Wagner, another reserve center, who's expected to command a portion of the mid-level exception from another team. The free agency buzz doesn't stop there. The Rockets' interest in former Defensive Player of the Year Marcus Smart is "only sounding more serious," with Houston reportedly preparing a three-year offer. Smart is expected to decline his $5.4 million player option on Monday, clearing the way for that move. Meanwhile, the Kings are eyeing free agent center Mitchell Robinson, if they can somehow create the cap flexibility needed for a competitive offer, which will take some work since they're currently above the first tax apron. And for all you frontcourt depth fanatics, the Celtics are looking at veteran center Kevon Looney, with the Knicks also in the mix, and Boston even considering a reunion with Robert Williams. Even coaching staffs are shifting, with Dave Joerger interviewing for a lead assistant position with the Nuggets. Man, the NBA offseason is always wild, and this year is no different. With Kawhi potentially heading back to Toronto and the Clippers looking to reload with a talent like Brandon Ingram, the Western Conference is about to get shaken up. Keep those eyes glued to the news feeds, because the next few days are going to be absolutely insane as these pieces start falling into place. It's go time for these front offices!

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.