Kawhi Leonard hit the biggest shot in Raptors’ history and even showed emotion while doing it. Leonard provided Toronto, in one uncertain season, what the Lowry-Derozan tandem couldn’t in a half decade of steadfast dedication. However, don’t think this means Leonard owes anything to Toronto or is now considering re-signing. This is the man who turned his back on San Antonio after going toe-to-toe with prime LeBron James and winning a Finals MVP for his troubles. If you think Leonard’s shot against Philadelphia changes his offseason, you’re misguided. The saga of Kawhi Leonard’s destination is not finished.
It’s easy to build early round narratives. Just look at Damian Lillard. Lillard was coronated after sending OKC home in five games but has had more games under 20 (three) than over 30 (two) since then. It’s just as easy to have Leonard sign a max in Toronto. The series with Milwaukee should be the true testament to Leonard’s decision-making.
Unless Toronto wins a title, they can’t truly ensure Leonard’s return in my opinion. But, to think that if Milwaukee beats Toronto (a likely possibility given Milwaukee’s signature Game 1 win) are we sure Leonard is still cemented as a Raptor next season because he pinballed a shot for the series against a team that hasn’t gotten out of the second round yet?
There’s no doubt Leonard has reminded the league why he belongs in the same breath as LeBron and KD, but do we believe in the rest of his team to back his play? Lowry is, well, Lowry in the playoffs, and he likely used the one bullet he had in the gun in Game 1. He’s averaged 13.8 points, 7 assists, and 5 rebounds, so far, on 43/34/76 splits.
Siakam’s development has been an unforeseen boost to Toronto’s title chances. However, he’s been on a rollercoaster, matching every 30 and 11 on 13-for-20 with an 11 and 11 on 4-for-11. This was evident when Siakam cooled off significantly in Game 1 after a hot start.
Leonard’s shot was amazing, but it shouldn’t have been necessary. Going to seven games with Philadelphia is a negative, not a positive. But, Leonard led his team to win, and if he continues to do so, Toronto should start hoping.
However, it’s too soon to pencil Leonard back in Toronto when he’s proven anything but logical in the past. Kawhi Leonard is an elite player with an elite mindset when it comes to his personnel decisions. He won’t be swayed by a second round buzzer-beater. Kawhi Leonard’s destination is no more determined now then it was at the start of the playoffs. Wait to see how the Milwaukee series plays out before you envision a future around Leonard in the North.