NBA could spark Kawhi Leonard’s Spurs homecoming at Clippers’ expense

Rumors have swirled about L.A. Clippers star Kawhi Leonard potentially returning to the San Antonio Spurs, and the NBA could help make that happen.

Although the possibility of a trade between the Spurs and Clippers can't be ruled out, another option could emerge. The NBA may soon announce the punishment for the Clippers and Leonard.

If the NBA opts to void Leonard's contract, that would make him a free agent and free to sign with any team. Ironically, he likely wouldn't receive a max contract because he'd no longer have his bird rights. That would eliminate the possibility of a sign and trade.

Instead, he could look to sign for the mid-level exception on a two-year deal with a player option and test free agency next season. Considering San Antonio has access to their full mid-level exception, if they could sign him to a one-plus-one contract, they could acquire him without having to trade any assets.

Could the Spurs really land Kawhi Leonard for free?

The NBA is almost certain to make a ruling on the Clippers' salary cap circumvention allegations sooner rather than later. If the NBA rules against them, it's entirely possible that he could have his contract voided.

In that case, he can sign with any team, but he probably wouldn't be willing to take the league minimum. The Los Angeles Lakers would have max cap space.

Nevertheless, he reportedly is only willing to sign an extension (subscription required) with the Toronto Raptors and the San Antonio Spurs. That hints that he wouldn't sign elsewhere. Of course, in that case, he couldn't sign a max contract.

The Spurs should be interested in a Kawhi Leonard reunion

Barring the NBA voiding his contract, the Spurs should still register interest in bringing him back--with some caveats, however.

Much like when the Spurs brought back Stephon Jackson, they should lay down the law before actually bringing Leonard back. That means limiting the influence of one Uncle Dennis.

It also could mean him deferring to Wemby. Of course, if he were to sign with San Antonio, it would likely be because of Wembanyama. Another big sticking point is what they would have to give up in a potential trade if they can't sign him.

If the Spurs traded for Kawhi, what would a deal look like?

De'Aaron Fox would likely have to be a part of a deal, as would multiple picks given the cost and length of his contract. But, if they can get off Fox's contract and bring back Leonard, it would be more than worth it.

Many Spurs fans still harbor resentment towards him. Even so, his fit as a go-to scorer, playmaker, defender, and rebounder would make San Antonio virtually unstoppable on both ends of the floor.

Hopefully, the NBA moves forward with voiding his contract, and the Spurs are able to bring him back on a 1-year deal with the goal of winning it all next season. However, if they don't, the Spurs should still be willing to acquire him, especially if they can get off Fox's contract in the process.

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