Clippers eye former Finals MVP as Kawhi Leonard trade talks heat up

The Los Angeles Clippers may already have their Kawhi Leonard backup plan, and it comes with a Finals MVP trophy.Leonard’s future in Los Angeles is now growing murkier, the Clippers have reportedly emerged as a serious team to watch for Boston Celtics star Jaylen Brown.According to ESPN’s Vincent Goodwill, one league executive said the Clippers “want Brown bad,” adding another major name to what has already become one of the NBA’s most active rumor cycles.The timing is not hard to understand.Leonard is entering the final year of his contract, and the Toronto Raptors have reportedly engaged the Clippers in serious trade talks about bringing him back to the franchise he led to the 2019 NBA championship.

Leonard’s camp is reportedly seeking a long-term commitment, while the Raptors appear more willing than Los Angeles to meet that number in a potential reunion.If the Clippers move Leonard, they are not expected to pivot into a full rebuild.Owner Steve Ballmer has shown little appetite for a full scale rebuild, and the Clippers’ reported interest in Brown fits that approach.Instead of tearing things down, Los Angeles could attempt to replace one former Finals MVP with another.

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By clicking above you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.Never miss a story Brown, the 2024 NBA Finals MVP, would give the Clippers a younger two-way star still in his prime.

The five-time All-Star is coming off the best statistical season of his career, averaging 28.7 points, 6.9 rebounds and 5.1 assists while shooting 47.7 percent from the field.He also brings the kind of playoff resume and wing versatility the Clippers would need if Leonard is no longer part of the plan.The Celtics’ situation makes the rumor even more interesting.Boston has reportedly taken calls on Brown as Brad Stevens evaluates h...