The reigning NBA Finals MVP informed his other suitors that he will sign with the Clippers, according to an ESPN report early Saturday morning. The Lakers and the Raptors, with whom Leonard won a title with this season, were also in the running for his services. He could have joined LeBron James and Anthony Davis with the Lakers.
Leonard won’t join the Clippers alone. The Thunder are trading Paul George to the Clippers for a massive haul of draft picks, along with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Danilo Gallinari, according to the report. The Clippers are sending Oklahoma City four unprotected first-round picks, one protected first-round pick and two pick swaps.
Leonard, who agreed to a four-year, $142 million deal, reportedly recruited George to join him with the Clippers by requesting a trade out of Oklahoma City. The Lakers did add free agent Danny Green on a two-year, $30 million deal, according to ESPN.
