Free agency does not officially start until July 1, but San Antonio is already close to a deal with Kawhi Leonard. Unlike others refusing any possibility of signing a short term contract in order to benefit from the future explosion of the salary cap. He wants a long-term contract this year and the Spurs are willing to offer it.
Five-year contract, with an exit clause after the 4th year
Thus, both parties should quickly agree on a five-year contract, with an exit clause after the fourth year. For the player, it is the guarantee to enjoy financial security over several years and if all goes well for him, he can always sign a new contract extension most lucrative in 2019, when he’ll turn twenty eight.
Once this agreement signed, San Antonio will turn to one of the two big fish of the offseason, Marc Gasol and LaMarcus Aldridge, before re-signing Tim Duncan and Manu Ginobili, depending on what they decide for the future of their careers.
NBA Champion and Finals MVP 2014, also 2015 best defender, Kawhi’s best individual season with 16.5 points 47.9%, 7.2 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 2.3 steals (first in the league) in 32 minutes per game.