Report: Raptors ‘favourites’ to re-sign Kawhi Leonard

The Toronto Raptors appear to be emerging as the front-runners for resigning Kawhi Leonard, after reports have him leaning north.

The Toronto Raptors are the “favourites” to sign two-time NBA Finals MVP Kawhi Leonard in free agency, Chris Haynes of Yahoo Sports reported Sunday.

Leonard is expected to decline his 2019-20 player option for $21.3 million to hit the market and make more on a max deal.

But the 27-year-old is reportedly “seriously considering” re-signing with the Raptors, who he helped lead to their first title in franchise history earlier this month.

Toronto is the only team that can offer Leonard a max contract worth $190 million over five years but recent reports suggested that other teams were looking to schedule meetings with the two-time Defensive Player of the Year, including the Los Angeles Clippers, Philadelphia 76ers and Brooklyn Nets.

Leonard averaged 30.5 points, 9.1 rebounds and 3.9 assists in 24 playoff games as he won his second championship.

The NBA’s free-agent negotiating period begins June 30 at 6 p.m. ET.

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