The Los Angeles Clippers broke up their Kawhi Leonard-James Harden duo before the NBA Trade Deadline on Feb. 5. Harden was traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers, leaving Leonard to lead the charge before the 2026 NBA Playoffs.
And while the Clippers have come a long way, especially with their recent successful run, one has to wonder about Leonard’s future with the team now that Harden is gone.
Clippers Shut Down Kawhi Leonard Trade Rumors Amid Uncertain Future
Despite a turbulent run this season, the Clippers proved that Harden and Leonard are capable of leading their team to the NBA playoffs. But Harden’s recent move put the brakes on their ambitions, leaving fans to wonder what’s next for the LA team. Of course, the Clippers have the chance to enter a full rebuild, something which could happen if they trade Leonard.
Analysts and fans immediately identified teams that could sign Leonard, including the Golden State Warriors, Miami Heat, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Phoenix Suns. Considering his versatility, Leonard could fit in with any team that either requires a push or needs a core change to win a championship.
RELATED: 2026 NBA Trade Deadline Tracker: Complete List of Every Deal Before Thursday’s Buzzer
However, despite the trade options, the Clippers are reportedly unwilling to part ways with the two-time NBA champion just yet.
“For those wondering, the Los Angeles Clippers aren’t moving Kawhi Leonard, sources say,” NBA insider Chris Haynes wrote on X.
For those wondering, the Los Angeles Clippers aren’t moving Kawhi Leonard, sources say.
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) February 5, 2026
Fans had varied reactions to the report. Some were glad that Leonard would stay on, hoping it would finally give the team to build around him and finally win the ever-elusive title. Other fans, though, joked about Leonard himself being unhappy with the trade.
Starting his career with the San Antonio Spurs, Leonard spent one year with the Toronto Raptors (2018-19) before heading to LA. And though his stint with the Clippers hasn’t been as successful as his time in San Antonio or Toronto, he remains a crucial part of the team’s current scenario.
Currently signed to a three-year, $149,505,800 contract with the team, Leonard is averaging 27.6 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 3.6 assists, while shooting 49.7% from the field.
Leonard Was Sad After Harden’s Trade to the Cavaliers
With his previous two stints, Leonard has had the chance to bring one championship home each time. But with the Clippers, despite making the Conference Finals in 2021, Leonard has yet to lead them to a title. Forming a trio with Harden and Paul George (who left in 2024), Leonard wanted to keep on trying.
“You always think you got a chance to win, I mean it’s hard to say at the time. Obviously, you need luck in this league with shots, with injuries, with everything. It’s just how it played out,” Leonard said after Harden’s move. “Wanted to try to give it another round, but it didn’t happen that way. … It’s over. Guys are gone.”
Having said that, the Clippers, who received Darius Garland and a 2026 second-round pick in exchange for Harden, are currently ranked ninth in the Western Conference with a 23-27 win-loss record.
The Clippers also traded Ivica Zubac and Kobe Brown to the Pacers for Bennedict Mathurin, Isaiah Jackson, two first-round picks, and one second-round pick.
