ESPN analyst Brian Windhorst is telling Toronto Raptors fans to fully embrace the team's new $115 million deal with Kawhi Leonard, arguing his recent on-court performance outweighs any off-court controversy. The two-time Finals MVP, 35, signed a two-year contract extension as the Raptors look to build a contender around him and Scottie Barnes. This comes as the team's recent form shows a 3W-2L record in their last five, including a 114-102 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers on May 3, 2026.
Windhorst made his case on ESPN, directly addressing the skepticism surrounding Leonard's arrival. He pointed to the forward's spectacular production last season with the Los Angeles Clippers. Leonard earned All-NBA Second Team honors, was an All-Star, and finished seventh in MVP voting. His stat line was formidable: he averaged 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, and nearly two steals per game during the 2025-26 campaign.
"Regardless of what you think of him, or anybody thinks of the way he operated during the Clippers' tenure, on the court last year he was spectacular," Windhorst said. He emphasized that Leonard's play drove significant trade value and that he has been playing at a high level since returning from his most recent surgery. For Windhorst, the basketball facts are simply too compelling to ignore.
The Raptors are acquiring a proven winner who can instantly elevate their playoff ceiling. Pairing Leonard with Scottie Barnes, who is coming off a tremendous breakout year, creates a formidable two-way duo. Leonard's ability to score efficiently, defend multiple positions, and perform in clutch moments is exactly what a team with championship aspirations needs. His experience in winning a title with Toronto in 2019 adds a layer of narrative, but the current value is purely basketball.
Health has been a long-term question, but Leonard has played 65 or more games in two of the last three seasons. If he can maintain that availability, his impact will be massive. The team's recent playoff series against Cleveland, which included wins like the 112-110 victory on May 1, 2026, shows they can compete. Adding a player of Leonard's caliber could be the difference in close games.
Expectations will be sky-high. The front office has signaled a win-now move by committing a major contract to a veteran star. Optimism is justified based on pure talent, but the team's overall health and roster construction around their two stars will be key.
Fans should watch the upcoming schedule to see how this new-look Raptors team gels. The goal is clear: another deep playoff run. With Kawhi Leonard locked in, the Raptors have a legitimate superstar to lead the charge. His performance will be the ultimate answer to any remaining doubts.
