Toronto Raptors fans react to Kawhi Leonard trade

Kawhi Leonard is returning to the Toronto Raptors.

Yes, you read that right. After plenty of speculation within the last week, the seven-time All-Star will be back in a Raptors uniform for the first time in seven years.

Though the deal has yet to be made official, several NBA insiders, including ESPN's Sham Charania, are reporting that Leonard is heading back to Toronto. In exchange, the Raptors have sent the LA Clippers Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, two first-round picks, two second-round picks, and a pick swap.

 

 

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A post shared by Offside (@offside)

Despite playing just one season with the Raptors, Leonard is revered by the fan base after leading the organization to its first championship in 2019. As you would imagine, many are thrilled to welcome him back to Toronto.

Raptors fans reacting to the Leonard trade. (Offside/Instagram)

Leonard, who turned 35 on Monday, has one season remaining on his contract at $50.3 million. He's still capable of dominating games when healthy, as indicated by his 27.9 points averaged this past season.

The issue with Leonard is that health hasn't been on his side for quite some time. The 65 games he played this past season marked his second highest total during his six year with the Clippers. His availability, or lack thereof, has some Raptors fans questioning why GM Bobby Webster gave up such a big package for an injury-prone player.

"That's a lot to give away for a bag of broken parts," one user commented on Instagram.

The other reaction from some is bitterness. Raptors fans were not at all happy that Leonard decided to bolt after one season in Toronto to join the Clippers, and it's clear that, at least for some, that frustration still exists.

"This is like taking back your girl after she cheated," one fan commented. Many others feel a similar way. 

Raptors fans frustrated with the Leonard trade. (TSN/Instagram)

It remains to be seen whether this will be a move praised or criticized in the years to come. One thing for certain, it has the entire basketball world talking.