NBA trade rumors: Los Angeles Clippers predicted to cut ties with $152.4 million superstar prior offseason after blockbuster James Harden departure

The Los Angeles Clippers may be heading toward a rebuild after trading James Harden to the Cleveland Cavaliers. The deal brought back Darius Garland and a 2026 second-round pick, a move that suggests the franchise is thinking beyond a short title window and focusing more on youth and financial flexibility.That shift places Kawhi Leonard at the center of the team’s next decision. Leonard is under contract through the 2026-27 season on a deal worth about $50.3 million in its final year. If the Clippers believe they are no longer contenders, they could trade him rather than risk losing him in free agency with no return.

James Harden trade points to a younger roster

Darius Garland, 26, gives the Los Angeles Clippers a reliable point guard who can lead the offense for several years.

Unlike Harden, he does not carry the same durability concerns and fits better with a roster that appears to be getting younger.The trade also signals that the team is no longer committed to building around an aging core. Instead, the focus looks to be on draft assets, cap control, and players who can grow with the franchise.

Contract situation could drive a Kawhi Leonard trade

Kawhi Leonard signed a three-year extension worth roughly $152 million. He will be 35 entering the final season of that deal, which makes his timeline different from a team that may not be ready to compete immediately.

Any trade would likely follow a simple structure: the Clippers move Leonard for younger players, future picks, and possibly expiring contracts to reduce salary obligations.Typical expectations include: • Young players with upside • At least one first-round pick • Possible second-round picks or swap rights

Illustrative framework

Los Angeles Clippers receive

• One or two rotation players aged roughly 23-27 • One or two first-round picks • Additional seconds or swap rights

Trading partner receives

• Kawhi Leonard on an expiring contract • A minor contract if needed for salary matchingSuch a deal would help the Clippers avoid heavy luxury-tax pressure while giving another team a high-level player without a long-term commitment.

What each side gains

Clippers

• Salary flexibility after moving a $50M contract • More draft capital to add to picks projected between 2027 and 2032 • A younger core built around Garland, John Collins, Derrick Jones Jr., and developing players

Kawhi Leonard

• A chance to compete for another title • An opportunity to strengthen his value before free agency

Acquiring team

• A proven two-way wing when healthy • Immediate playoff help without a multi-year risk

Pros and cons for Los Angeles Clippers

Pros

• Avoid relying on one expensive player • Trade Leonard while his value remains strong • Stay consistent with the direction set by the Harden trade

Cons

• Loss of the team’s top player • Return packages may depend on unproven talent • Lower ceiling in the Western Conference in the short term

Teams that could show interest in Kawhi Leonard

Miami Heat

Miami’s defensive identity makes Leonard a natural fit next to Bam Adebayo.Example package: Tyler Herro or Duncan Robinson, Nikola Jović, Kel’el Ware, a protected 2027 first, and a 2029 second.

Golden State Warriors

Golden State could use another defender and scorer on the wing to support Stephen Curry.Example package: Andrew Wiggins, Moses Moody, a 2028 first, and a 2030 second.

Cleveland Cavaliers

Adding Leonard to a group that includes Harden and Garland would give Cleveland a strong core.Example package: Evan Mobley or Isaac Okoro plus a 2027 first.

San Antonio Spurs

A reunion is possible given the Spurs’ young roster and draft assets.Example package: A young wing, a 2027 first, and a 2029 second.

Toronto Raptors

Leonard already has championship history in Toronto.Example package: Immanuel Quickley, Chris Boucher, and a 2027 first, though Scottie Barnes would likely be unavailable.

Risk and reward for both sides

Los Angeles Clippers’ risks

• Reduced competitiveness after the trade • The return may depend heavily on Leonard staying healthy elsewhere

Clippers’ gains

• A stronger collection of assets • Long-term cap flexibility

Contender risks

• Ongoing injury concerns; Leonard played only about five games early in the 2025-26 season • The possibility he leaves after one year

Contender gains

• A player capable of changing a playoff series • No long-term financial obligation

Kawhi Leonard 2025-26 stat snapshot

Leonard was also selected to the 2026 All-Star Game at Intuit Dome, a reminder that he remains highly effective when available.

Possible outcome of a trade

If the Los Angeles Clippers move Leonard and receive young players plus multiple first-round picks, they could reshape the roster quickly while maintaining financial control. For a contender, acquiring him could raise the team from competitive to serious title threat.The downside is clear. If injuries limit his availability, the Clippers may not get full value, and the acquiring team could give up significant assets for little return.Also read: NBA trade rumors: Golden State Warriors could chase $11 million Miami Heat star for promising Jimmy Butler reunion ahead of postseasonThe decision will likely come down to timing. Keeping Leonard preserves star power but carries risk. Trading him would confirm a reset and shift the franchise toward its next phase.