The two teams that wanted Kawhi Leonard amid Clippers scandal before Raptors trade

In June, NBA investigations involving the LA Clippers may have involved superstar Kawhi Leonard, but other teams remained interested in acquiring him. Despite the ongoing probe and Leonard's historic punishment for cap circumvention, multiple teams, including the Minnesota Timberwolves and Detroit Pistons, showed interest in the All-NBA forward.

The Pistons and Timberwolves were willing to trade for Leonard despite the uncertainty surrounding his future, as per Shams Charania's report. Leonard ultimately chose the Toronto Raptors as his next destination, with the team's management viewing it as a legacy move for the star player. Even though the Pistons or Timberwolves might have offered a more immediate path to a championship, it is clear that Leonard's decision was driven by his desire to reconnect with the fanbase that still supports him.

Last season, Leonard averaged 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.9 steals, setting his best-scoring season. The Raptors' acquisition of Leonard helps the Clippers limit the damage they caused while allowing the player to rebuild his legacy with a team that remains loyal to him.