​Scottie Barnes believes the Toronto Raptors could be a juggernaut if the Kawhi Leonard trade goes through, a story that originally appeared in The Sporting News. The publication notes The Sporting News as a preferred source by clicking here. Kawhi Leonard’s trade to the Raptors was set in motion in early July 2026, though the deal hasn’t been finalized yet, largely due to ongoing controversy surrounding the Los Angeles Clippers and aspiration behind the scenes. Despite the turbulence, talks have continued with the players involved about how they would fit together, and Barnes, in particular, is confident the Raptors could form a formidable unit.
During the 2025-26 season, Barnes and the Raptors emerged as one of the league’s most dangerous Eastern Conference teams. Paired with Collin Murray-Boyles, they created a duo that proved difficult to score against, forcing opponents to adjust to their versatility and relentless energy. Still, there was room for improvement, especially on offense. Brandon Ingram provided solid contributions, but the team needed a star-level player to push them over the top and help them stand out more on a national stage.
This is precisely why the Leonard trade is such a game-changer for the Raptors. Acquiring a proven superstar could push the franchise past its current ceiling and demonstrate its potential for sustained success. Barnes recognizes this potential, which is why he’s eager for the trade to be completed. “It seems very dangerous. We’ve got guys all over the floor, at every position, ready to guard and take advantage of opportunities. We’re approaching this with a mentality of taking what’s available, like taking candy from a baby. We’ve got players everywhere who are prepared to go out there. We know what Kawhi can do—score the ball, guard the ball, generate steals, stay active—and he’ll fit right in,” Barnes said during NBA Summer League.
The prospect of facing a lineup that includes Leonard, Barnes, and Murray-Boyles would terrify most opponents, and if the Raptors’ trade finally goes through, they could become one of the NBA’s most dreaded teams to face. The ongoing discussion around the league includes other notable developments, such as the Raptors’ recent seven-foot center signing who stood out in the Big Ten, Kyle Lowry’s official retirement with the Raptors, and reflections on Kawhi Leonard’s one-year stint with Toronto as his return to the city becomes a talking point again. The conversation also continues around how the trade packages for Kawhi Leonard in 2018 compare to those rumored for 2026, a topic of interest for fans and analysts alike who seek better insight into the evolving landscape and the potential outcomes for Toronto.