It’s been just 24 hours since news broke that Kawhi Leonard wants the San Antonio Spurs to trade him. Since then, rumors have persisted about potential landing spots with the Los Angeles Lakers being among the most talked about.
With just a handful of days left before the 2018 NBA Draft, these rumors are going to heat up even more. They now reportedly include the Phoenix Suns and the No. 1 overall pick in next week’s annual event.
“Several league sources told me they anticipate Suns general manager Ryan McDonough to probe a Leonard deal using the no. 1 pick,” The Ringer’s Kevin O’Connor reported. “Phoenix explored (Kyrie) Irving trades last summer but was reluctant to deal Josh Jackson, whom they selected with the fourth overall pick.”
O’Connor goes on to note that any trade involving Leonard and the No. 1 pick would have to include Josh Jackson as well as another young member of the Suns. That would be a massive haul for a player in Leonard who suited up in nine games last season.
The No. 4 overall pick in last year’s draft, Jackson himself would be a major get for San Antonio. Add in the possibility of acquiring Deandre Ayton or Luka Doncic, and that’s magnified even further.
If the Suns do indeed decide to offer this haul, it’s hard to imagine San Antonio receiving a better deal.