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yesterday

Fred VanVleet Says Kawhi Told Raptors He'd Leave 'From Day One'

VanVleet shared on the Hello and Welcome podcast that Leonard made his intentions clear at the start of his lone season in Toronto.

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MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE - DECEMBER 05: Kawhi Leonard #2 of the LA Clippers looks on during the game against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum on December 05, 2025 in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images)

Overview

  • VanVleet said Leonard told teammates on day one, “I’m not staying here,” and questioned why he had been traded to Toronto.
  • He added that Toronto mounted an all-out retention push, including free meals for life and a ceremonial key to the city, but nothing changed Leonard’s stance.
  • Leonard played one season with the Raptors, delivering the 2019 NBA championship before signing with the Los Angeles Clippers as a free agent.
  • Leonard’s Clippers tenure has been marred by injuries and limited postseason results, including just one trip to the Western Conference finals.
  • The Clippers’ move to acquire Paul George to pair with Leonard sent Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and multiple first-round picks to Oklahoma City, a haul widely credited with helping the Thunder win a title.