Raptors Reportedly Turned Down Trade Involving PG13, Westbrook

The Toronto Raptors were said to be still in contention for Kawhi Leonard as late as yesterday night. In fact, things could have gone a little crazy in Toronto according to Adrian Wojnarowski of ESPN.

Leonard held the entire NBA at a stand-still as he attempted to draw a second All-Star to his preferred destination, which in hindsight seemed to be either the Raptors or the Los Angeles Clippers – not the Los Angeles Lakers. After reportedly striking out on Kevin Durant, Leonard set his focus on teaming up with Paul George, asking the superstar wing to request a trade from the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Story soon on ESPN: In a dramatic night of negotiations, Thunder GM Sam Presti leveraged the Clippers and Raptors in trade talks on Paul George. The Clippers ability to deliver an unprecedented pool of picks and PG Shai Gilgeous-Alexander ruled day.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 6, 2019

In an effort to keep Leonard in Toronto, Woj reported that Masai Ujiri had conversation with Sam Presti, the general manager of the Oklahoma City Thunder, and a potential framework for a deal was on the table. The Thunder were ready to part ways with their stars in George and Russell Westbrook for an assortment of draft picks as well as Pascal Siakam.

In the end, Toronto didn't have assets to satisfy OKC — with or without Siakam in any proposed deal. The fear of Toronto entering into trade talks with OKC only proved to guarantee the Clippers would go the distance with five first-round picks and SGA in deal for George.

— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) July 6, 2019

While it was not confirmed whether or not Leonard would have stayed if the Raptors were to acquire Westbrook, Ujiri was not ready to move Siakam nor was he willing to take on Westbrooks egregious contract. Moreover, once the Clippers offered the Thunder a deal which included young point guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and a record amount of draft picks, the Thunder very quickly accepted the assets.

As a new superpower builds in Los Angeles, the Raptors now turn their sights on a cloudy future after the best season in franchise history.