Kawhi Leonard has finally made a decision, and it will have a long-lasting impact across the entire NBA.
The 2019 NBA Finals MVP is signing with the Los Angeles Clippers, according to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski.
But along with Leonard’s decision comes the Clippers acquisition of Oklahoma City Thunder forward Paul George. The New York Times’ Marc Stein was the first to report details on the number of draft picks the Thunder acquired in this trade.
The Clippers also dealt guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and forward Danilo Gallinari to Oklahoma City. While Gilgeous-Alexander could play a part in OKC’s future, Gallinari will likely be dealt at some point this season. He’s slated to be a free agent after this season, and the Thunder appear to be heading towards a rebuild.
Leonard and George give the Clippers a foundation for one of the best rosters in the NBA. Los Angeles still has talented players like Lou Williams, Landry Shamet, Patrick Beverly, Mo Harkless and Ivica Zubac on the roster.
The Clippers are expected to be the new favorites to win the 2020 NBA title, surpassing the Lakers. FanDuel moved the Clippers up to +270 in the wake of these moves.
The Lakers and Thunder’s futures were also impacted, according to reporting from Patrick Everson.
The Lakers did their best to counter on Saturday. General manager Rob Pelinka was able to ink former Raptors forward Danny Green to a deal early in the morning. Then they signed DeMarcus Cousins to a one-year deal and brought veteran point guard Rajon Rondo back. Remember, Rondo and Davis had outstanding chemistry during the playoffs two seasons ago.
The next major domino to fall could come from Oklahoma City. The Thunder still have a number of pieces it could move for future assets, including Russell Westbrook, Steven Adams, Dennis Schroder and Gallinari.