A source close to the Lakers told Lakers Daily that the team regularly counts its blessings that Kawhi Leonard did not sign with themKawhi Leonard and LeBron James (Photo By Imagn Images)
Amid the ongoing discussions surrounding Kawhi Leonard’s endorsement deals, his NBA contract with the Los Angeles Clippers has also sparked conversation. Despite receiving interest from the Toronto Raptors and Los Angeles Lakers, Leonard ultimately chose the Clippers. Reports indicate that one key reason he did not join the Lakers was his reluctance to play alongside LeBron James.

However, the Lakers appear to take the missed opportunity in stride. A source close to the franchise told Lakers Daily that the team regularly counts its blessings that Leonard did not sign with them.

“We wanted him in 2019. We count our blessings all the time he’s not here. He’s been such a headache for the Clippers. I actually feel bad for them sometimes,” the report read.

Even after the Clippers later acquired James Harden to form a dynamic duo with Leonard, the results fell short of expectations. Leonard has struggled with injuries since joining Los Angeles.

Kawhi appeared in only 37 games last season. Though he helped the Clippers reach the playoffs, they were eliminated in the first round by the Denver Nuggets.

Adam Silver Addresses Kawhi Leonard’s Endorsement Saga

Kawhi Leonard Kawhi Leonard (Image Credits: Imagn)
Last week, Pablo Torre reported that Leonard signed a $28 million endorsement deal described as a “no-show job” with a fraudulent tree-planting company. The NBA has already launched an investigation into the matter. On Tuesday, Commissioner Adam Silver addressed the league’s approach to the situation.

“The burden [of proof] is on the league if we’re going to discipline a team, owner or player. As a matter of fundamental fairness, I would be reluctant to act if there was only an appearance of impropriety. The public at times reaches conclusions that later turn out to be false,” Silver said.

Reportedly, Clippers owner Steve Ballmer provided $50 million in funding to the controversial company and was responsible for introducing Leonard to it. Ballmer has since denied the allegations. But so far, Leonard has remained silent throughout the whole saga.