Report: Raptors finalizing trade for Kawhi Leonard, centred around DeMar DeRozan

While you all were sleeping, Masai Ujiri was busy in Africa making the biggest move in Toronto Raptors history. Multiple sources, including ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, are reporting that Toronto and the San Antonio Spurs are finalizing a multiple-player trade for Kawhi Leonard at this hour. On the Raptors side, the deal is centred around DeMar DeRozan.

As many will know, this deal doesn’t work in salary as a one-for-one swap, so we are still awaiting full details. Check back here as the story is updated.

In very much related (and slightly frightening) news, ESPN’S Chris Haynes is reporting that Leonard has no desire to play for Toronto. He has been public, through his agent, that he wants to end up in Los Angeles, and would definitely be a flight risk when his contract is up at the end of this year.

For the Raptors, DeMar DeRozan has been informed of the trade at this time. His Instagram story would indicate as such, as he’s clearly displeased with perceived disloyalty.

Obviously, there will be a lot to break down as we go forward. Keep it locked for analysis and updates throughout the day.

Update, 9:00 a.m.

The trade details have arrived. The Raptors will give up DeRozan, Jakob Poeltl, and a protected 2019 first-round pick. This is much better than expected for Ujiri, who managed to acquire Leonard without giving up big-upside young talent in OG Anunoby or Pascal Siakam.

Update, 9:07 a.m.

The first round pick from the Raptors is protected 1-20.

Update, 12:08 p.m.

It’s all official now, with a press release from the Spurs, and this tremendously surreal photo of DeMar DeRozan in a San Antonio jersey.

Update, 12:20 p.m.

It’s official from Toronto now too. Kawhi Leonard is a Raptor.