Kawhi Leonard Cleared to Start Season with Raptors After Blockbuster Trade

Kawhi Leonard has been cleared to begin the 2026-27 season with the Toronto Raptors following an NBA investigation into salary cap circumvention. While Los Angeles was fined $30M and lost five draft picks, Leonard received a $700,000 fine and avoided suspension. The Finals MVP spurned trade interest from Detroit and Minnesota to choose Toronto in a legacy-focused return, arriving via a massive deal involving Brandon Ingram and draft compensation.