Full Breakdown
Kawhi Leonard's Departure: Insights from Fred VanVleet
12/17/2025, 7:23:51 AM
Kawhi Leonard's Discontent with the Raptors
In a recent podcast appearance, former Toronto Raptors player Fred VanVleet revealed that Kawhi Leonard expressed dissatisfaction with his situation upon joining the team. VanVleet recounted that Leonard told his new teammates, “I don’t want to be here,” indicating his reluctance to remain with the franchise from the very beginning. Leonard's sentiments were clear: “I don’t know why they traded for me. I’m not staying here.” Despite this, VanVleet acknowledged Leonard's significant contribution to the Raptors' success, stating, “He changed a lot of people’s lives,” as Leonard led the team to its first NBA championship in 2019.
Impact of Leonard's Departure on the Raptors
VanVleet reflected on the potential for the Raptors to have won additional championships had Leonard chosen to stay. He noted that the team faced challenges in the post-title era, which may have influenced Leonard's decision to leave. VanVleet suggested that the Raptors could have secured “at least two more championships” if Leonard had seen a brighter future with the team. His departure marked a turning point for the franchise, leading to significant changes among key players, including VanVleet himself, Pascal Siakam, and OG Anunoby.
Current State of the Raptors
As the Raptors navigate their current season, they recently snapped a four-game losing streak with a victory over the Miami Heat. The win was characterized by a strong fourth-quarter performance, where the Raptors outscored the Heat significantly. Brandon Ingram led the team with 28 points, while Jamal Shead's contributions were pivotal, showcasing a +27 plus/minus rating during his time on the court.
Despite the recent success, the Raptors have struggled with consistency, particularly in their three-point shooting. The team averages only 31.9 three-point attempts per game, ranking among the lowest in the league. Sandro Mamukelashvili emphasized the need for the Raptors to increase their three-point volume to remain competitive, especially against teams that excel in perimeter shooting.
Criticism and Challenges
VanVleet also addressed the broader context of the Raptors' struggles, suggesting that the franchise's ongoing sale may have affected their willingness to invest in player contracts. He remarked, “Blank cheques aren’t being written while in the process of teams being sold,” indicating that financial uncertainties could hinder the team's ability to retain talent.
Official Statements & Responses
In discussing the Raptors' current trajectory, head coach Darko Rajakovic emphasized the importance of learning from past experiences. He stated, “It is hard for young players to take on new roles... I think it’s a great learning opportunity for all of them.” This sentiment reflects the team's ongoing efforts to adapt and grow amidst challenges.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I don’t want to be here.” — Kawhi Leonard, as recounted by Fred VanVleet
- “He changed a lot of people’s lives,” — Fred VanVleet on Kawhi Leonard's impact
- “Blank cheques aren’t being written while in the process of teams being sold,” — Fred VanVleet on the Raptors' financial situation
As the Raptors continue their season, they face the challenge of building a cohesive team while navigating the legacies of past stars like Kawhi Leonard.
