The Golden State Warriors reportedly sought a trade deal with the Los Angeles Clippers for two-time NBA champion Kawhi Leonard at this season’s trade deadline in February, according to ESPN.Apr 15, 2026; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) warms up prior to the game against the Golden State Warriors in the play-in rounds of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Intuit Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn ImagesThe Clippers’ decision to trade veterans James Harden and Ivica Zubac at the trade deadline suggested that Los Angeles would also be willing to trade Leonard and rebuild.
The Warriors reportedly offered “strong draft capital and multiple players the Warriors valued”, per ESPN.The Clippers ultimately rejected a trade involving Leonard. But now, Leonard is entering the final season of the three-year, $149.5 million contract he signed in January 2024. The seven-time NBA All-Star is eligible for another extension this summer and will command a lucrative deal.
ESPN’s Ramona Shelbourne reported that the Warriors could reattempt a trade with the Clippers for Leonard this offseason.Leonard Is Not the Only LA Star The Warriors Could Target This OffseasonIn addition to Leonard, the Warriors are reportedly expected to explore signing four-time NBA champion LeBron James. If the Los Angeles Lakers veteran does not retire at the end of this season, he will be an unrestricted free agent this summer.“Sources said there’s an expectation the Warriors could reengage the Clippers on Leonard’s availability this offseason, compile another offer for Antetokounmpo and test the waters again on soon-to-be free agent LeBron James,” Shelbourne wrote.Feb 12, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) handles the ball in the first half against the Dallas Mavericks at Crypto.com Arena.
Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn ImagesThe Warriors would benefit from adding another superstar to help maximize their championship window with four-time NBA champion Steph Curry on the team. But convincing the Clippers to hand over Leonard will require a massive return offer.Photo Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images