Kawhi Leonard and Clippers Agree to a 3-Year, $153 Million Extension

Los Angeles Clippers' forward Kawhi Leonard in 2019.
Los Angeles Clippers' forward Kawhi Leonard in 2019. Photo by Jim Ruymen/UPI/Shutterstock (12595233i)

Kawhi Leonard will continue donning the Los Angeles Clippers jersey for the foreseeable future. The Clippers announced on Wednesday that Leonard signed a new extension with the franchise.

The LA team didn’t disclose the financial terms of the agreement, but multiple reports indicate it is a three-year, $153 million deal. Leonard was in the final year of his old contract and had a player option for the 2024-25 season.

“We’re thrilled to continue our relationship with Kawhi,” Clippers president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank said in a statement. “He is an elite player, a terrific partner, and a relentless worker who knows how to win and makes it his first priority. He elevated our franchise from the moment he arrived. We feel fortunate that Kawhi chose to join the Clippers five years ago, and excited to keep building with him.”

Leonard is enjoying a great season and is the main reason why the Clippers are sitting at No. 4 in the Western Conference with a 23-13 record. The 32-year-old player is currently averaging 23.8 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 3.4 assists while shooting 51.6% from the field. He also managed to avoid injury issues that plagued him in recent seasons, missing only four games so far in 2023-24.

The Clippers are reportedly also looking to sign their other superstar, Paul George, to a new extension. The negotiations are currently underway, and both sides are optimistic about reaching a deal. 

Ben loves sports so much but prefers watching other people do it. He prefers not to share what teams he's supporting but he is willing to admit that Lebron James is, in fact, the king.