Since Kawhi Leonard signed with the Los Angeles Clippers in 2019, the two-time NBA Finals MVP has been the face of the franchise. However, the forward could be on the way out after the Clippers’ approach to the NBA trade deadline.
Kawhi Leonard Breaks Silence on Ivica Zubac Deal as Clippers Reset at Trade Deadline
Before the NBA trade deadline, the Indiana Pacers acquired center Ivica Zubac from the Clippers. In exchange, the Clippers received Bennedict Mathurin, Isaiah Jackson, two first-round picks, and one second-round pick.
Following the Clippers’ 114-111 road win over the Sacramento Kings on Friday night, Leonard addressed the decisions made by the Clippers before the NBA trade deadline. James Harden was also traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers in exchange for Darius Garland.
“He was like a brother. We see these people, the players around here, more than we see our family. He’s someone who’s going to be missed. And he’ll still have a chance to win in Indiana when Tyrese Haliburton gets back.” Leonard stated.
Kawhi Leonard on Ivica Zubac:
“It’s like losing a brother… Somebody that will be missed. Played a lot of games with him. A lot of battles. He’s a face we’re gonna miss in the locker.”
Said Zu is gonna have a chance to compete for an NBA championship when Tyrese Halliburton… pic.twitter.com/xiwoLGO9US
— Joey Linn (@joeylinn_) February 7, 2026
Zubac, 28, was acquired by the Clippers alongside Michael Beasley in a trade with the Los Angeles Lakers. The 2025 NBA All-Defensive Second-Team player signed his first significant contract with the Clippers in 2019, the same year Kawhi Leonard joined.
“I believe he was probably about 21 years old when I got here. He just kept working and over time he got to be the guy that stayed in for the fourth quarter, holding down the fort. Also got very skilled on the posts, and he had a great development.” Leonard shared.
Additionally, before the NBA trade deadline, the Clippers also sent Harden to the Cavaliers in exchange for Garland and a second-round pick. Harden is currently averaging 25.4 points, 8.1 assists, and 4.8 rebounds this season.
“Just trying to get younger. We came in the year with the oldest team. It makes sense for them to try to get some assets and build for the future. It’s a big class coming in 2027, hopefully. They gotta do what’s best for them.” Leonard also stated.
Garland, at 26 years old, has already been an All-Star twice. His best season was 2024-25, when he averaged 20.6 points and 6.7 assists per game as part of the league’s best offense. He earned All-Star honors and helped lead the Cavaliers to a 64-win season.
The former Cavaliers Guard has dealt with multiple injuries since 2020, including ankle issues on multiple occasions in 2021 and back issues in 2022. However, he is set to return following the NBA All-Star game, according to recent reports.
Going into the offseason, Kawhi Leonard has just a year remaining on his current deal. According to recent reports from NBA insider Chris Haynes, the two-time Finals MVP is not currently thinking about his next deal.
“As far as Kawhi Leonard goes, he’s extension-eligible himself. He has one year left on his deal. I was told from Kawhi Leonard’s camp that they are not in any rush to try and initiate any extension talks or talking into the future.” Haynes stated before the trade deadline.
Additionally, Haynes added in his report that Leonard’s focus is on finishing the season strong, before reevaluating his stance in the Summer. Following their win over the Sacramento Kings, the Clippers advanced to 24-27 and are still in with a play-in chance.
