It has been six years since Kawhi Leonard led the Toronto Raptors to their first NBA championship, teaming with players like Serge Ibaka, OG Anunoby, Pascal Siakam, Marc Gasol, Kyle Lowry, and Fred VanVleet. Despite the triumph, Leonard’s decision to leave the Raptors immediately afterward remains a mystery, especially for his former teammate Serge Ibaka. In a recent conversation on the ‘Hello and Welcome‘ podcast, Ibaka revealed his surprise and confusion about Leonard’s departure.
I didn’t believe it, I thought he was going to stay. I didn’t think he was going to leave.
—Serge Ibaka, NBA Player
Ibaka struggled to comprehend the situation, visibly distressed as he replayed the moment in his mind.
Kawhi, why? Why Kawhi? Why did he leave?
—Serge Ibaka, NBA Player
Ibaka’s Emotional Reaction to Hypothetical Future Championships with Leonard
When the interviewer suggested how many championships could have been won if Leonard had remained with the Raptors, Ibaka was still taken aback and hesitant to answer.
Bro, why are you asking me this question?
—Serge Ibaka, NBA Player
He expressed a mix of frustration and fondness, repeatedly touching his forehead as he imagined the missed opportunities for victory.
Come on! It’s my guy, though. Bro, I still love you, bro. It’s all good, it’s all love,
—Serge Ibaka, NBA Player
Following Leonard’s departure, Ibaka eventually joined the Los Angeles Clippers, reuniting with Leonard a year later. However, the team lacked the core strength they once had in Toronto to secure another title.
Unraveling the Reasons Behind Leonard’s Departure
The exact motives for Kawhi Leonard’s exit have not been fully disclosed. Some reports suggest he wished to return to his hometown of Los Angeles, yet Leonard offered a different explanation in a GQ interview.
I just wanted to go to a franchise where I could try to help build a legacy.
—Kawhi Leonard, NBA Player
Paul George, Leonard’s teammate with the Clippers, mentioned that there had been talks about forming a team together in Toronto. However, the Clippers ultimately insisted on a trade involving the Oklahoma City Thunder, redirecting Leonard’s destination and ending chances of those plans in Toronto.
Leonard’s Impact and Statistics During His Time with the Raptors
Kawhi Leonard had a remarkable run with Toronto, averaging 26.6 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 3.3 assists during the regular seasons. His performance peaked in the NBA Finals, where he earned his second Finals MVP by averaging 28.5 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 4.2 assists. Leonard led the Raptors to victory against the Golden State Warriors, who were aiming for a three-peat but faced injuries to key players.
Fred VanVleet’s Perspective: A Potential Three-Peat for the Raptors
Fred VanVleet, another key Raptors player, has expressed his belief that the team, with Leonard still on the roster, could have achieved a three-peat championship run. VanVleet’s perspective echoes Ibaka’s regret and highlights how Leonard’s departure affected the Raptors’ title chances.