Kawhi Leonard and Spurs Agree to Max Extension

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The San Antonio Spurs have locked up their player of the future as Kawhi Leonard has reportedly agreed to a five-year deal worth somewhere north of $90 million. With the careers of Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobli and Tony Parker coming to a close, the Spurs will need Leonard to try and transition smoothly from one era to the next.

Last season, Leonard averaged 16.5 points and 7.2 rebounds per game. These numbers may not immediately scream “max extension”, but for those who have watched Leonard’s impact on the game, it’s clear that he is a max player. He provides lock down defense on any player that he’s matched up against. This is a commodity that is highly coveted in today’s NBA and is what makes Leonard such a great player.

However, he is still only 24, so his offense has time to grow. He’s already a good three point shooter and has shown flashes of elite slashing ability. Should his offense continue to develop as it’s expected to, Leonard will become an elite two way player. He’ll be the cornerstone of the Spurs franchise for years to come as they ease out of the Tim Duncan era.

Now, the Spurs will be looking to sign free agent big man LaMarcus Aldridge to bolster their front court and make one last run at the title before Duncan’s career ends. Leonard is not only the future of the Spurs but he will also be vital in the next couple of years. Leonard’s extension was a necessary move by the Spurs and seems to be reasonably priced. This was a very smart move by the Spurs and Kawhi.