Kawhi Leonard re-signs Los Angeles Clippers on a new four year deal

The small forward has opted for the maximum contract option, which will allow him to earn $3 million more this season, and will take 35% of the salary cap of the team.

Kawhi Leonard has re-signed to a new deal with his team, Los Angeles Clippers. He will be staying in Los Angeles for four more years, according to the contract.

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He declined the $36 million contract option, which will lead to him probably signing the maximum contract option. This entails him getting 35% of the team’s salary cap and earning at least $3 million more this forthcoming season.

Leonard suffered a partially torn right ACL last season during the playoffs. He missed the team’s first Western Conference finals. Last week, he had his surgery but his teammates say there is no timetable for his return yet and could miss a good portion of the team’s season, while he is recovering.

He averages 26 points, 6.8 rebounds and five assists in his first two seasons with the team which can be considered very close to his home. Last season, he averaged 24.8 points, 6.5 rebounds and a career-best 5.2 assists. He shot 51% from the field and 88% off the line. The five-time All-Star was even more impressive during the postseason games averaging 30.4 points, 7.7 rebounds and 4.4 assists in 11 games. He suffered an injury in game 4 of the second-round series between Utah Jazz and had to miss eight preseason games, including the western conference finals against the Phoenix Suns, where they lost 4-2. Leonard was inducted to his 7th All-Defensive team and 3rd All-NBA first team last season.

They have re-signed Paul George too, along with Leonard. George, also, opted for the maximum contract extension and ensures both will stay for the next few seasons.

Leonard has a transcendental influence on the team, according to Lawrence Frank, president of basketball operations of the Clippers. He further stated that he was someone who improves himself every day. The team shares the same goals as him. The Clippers will support him through his rehab. Frank stated that he looks forward to seeing Leonard again on the court.

Leonard, along with George, Reggie Jackson, Terrance Mann and Luke Kennard were present during the Clippers Rookies games at the NBA Summer League in Las Vegas. Leonard was seen not wearing a leg brace while watching the rookies.