Los Angeles Clippers sign star forward Kawhi Leonard to contract extension

The team made an official announcement regarding the move, but they did not disclose the specific details of the contract, such as its length or financial terms.

According to multiple news outlets, it has been reported that the deal is worth $152.4 million and spans over a period of three years, extending until the 2026/27 season.

Kawhi Leonard, who was born in Los Angeles, joined the Clippers as a free agent in 2019. On August 12th, 2021, he signed a four-year extension worth $176.27 million, which includes an opt-out clause after the current season.

By signing Leonard to this extension, the team ensures that he will be part of the roster when they transition to their new arena in Inglewood, California, in the upcoming season.

Lawrence Frank, the president of basketball operations, expressed his excitement about continuing their partnership with Kawhi, highlighting his exceptional skills as a player, his valuable contributions as a teammate, and his unwavering dedication to winning.

Since joining the Clippers, Leonard has made a significant impact on the franchise. He has been instrumental in elevating the team's performance right from the start. The organization considers themselves fortunate that Kawhi chose to join them five years ago and looks forward to further growth with him.

In the current season, Leonard has been averaging 23.8 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 3.4 assists in 32 games, all of which he started.

Having been drafted 15th overall in 2011, Leonard has an impressive career record. Throughout 660 regular-season games (631 starts) with the San Antonio Spurs (2011-18), Toronto Raptors (2018-19), and Clippers, he has maintained averages of 19.8 points, 6.4 rebounds, 3.0 assists, and 1.7 steals.

In the postseason, Leonard has appeared in 137 games, showcasing averages of 21.4 points, 7.8 rebounds, 2.9 assists, and 1.8 steals.

As a two-time NBA champion, he has earned the title of NBA Finals MVP in both 2014 and 2019. Additionally, Leonard has been recognized with three first-team All-NBA selections and a place on the NBA's 75th anniversary team. Furthermore, he has been honored twice as the Defensive Player of the Year.