Rumor: Kawhi Leonard may not make his decision for a few more days
While there was some speculation that LA Clippers free agent target Kawhi Leonard would choose tonight, rumor has it he may wait a few more days.
As the days of free agency have dragged on, more and more speculation has come about in regards to when superstar free agent Kawhi Leonard will make his decision. According to rumors, he’s still considering all three teams — the LA Clippers, Los Angeles Lakers and Toronto Raptors — but we probably shouldn’t expect an announcement soon about which one he’ll be choosing.
The rumor comes from The Athletic‘s Jabari Young, who wrote on Twitter Wednesday night that Leonard will not be making his decision tonight, as many speculated, and that he may not do so until the next few days. The reporter appears to be a reputable source, as well, given other news breakers like Shams Charania, Chris Haynes and Marc Stein all retweeted his report.
The information comes as a tough blow for LA Clippers fans, as tensions are already beginning to reach their peak. Although, it isn’t necessarily a bad thing for the franchise that Leonard is taking his time.
While Leonard has been mulling his decision and taking meetings with the interested teams, the Clippers have been making smart move after smart move to prepare for the future, whether Leonard comes or not. Over the course of the past few days, they’ve added several role players that could help keep the team afloat if he signs elsewhere, or play supporting roles if he chooses the Clippers.
Patrick Beverley was the first player added, with LA reportedly agreeing to terms with him on a three-year deal worth $40 million. It’s a great value for Beverley, a two-time All-Defensive selection and the heart and soul of the team. Plus, there are rumors that he was offered a larger deal from the Sacramento Kings, but ultimately turned it down in order to return to LA.
The Clippers have also added defensive-minded wings in the last two days, first in Maurice Harkless and more recently in Rodney McGruder.
All of the additions have fit the team’s current identity, have been good value, and have kept the Clippers firmly in the mix to sign Leonard away from the Raptors.
The LA Clippers likely aren’t in any hurry to sign Leonard, given what they were able to accomplish with last year’s roster. However, a decision sooner rather than later would be most beneficial for the rest of us — the stress levels are really starting to climb.