Los Angeles Lakers: 4 stars to pair with Anthony Davis post-LeBron James

4. Kawhi Leonard

I want to preface this by saying that I do not think this happens and I would be legitimately shocked if it does happen. However, I do not think it is completely out of the realm of possibility, especially considering the kind of superstar that Kawhi Leonard is.

Kawhi already spurned the Los Angeles Lakers in favor of the Los Angeles Clippers but signed worked a player option after the 2020-21 season into his contract. This way, if things do not go as planned, he could opt out after next season, as could Paul George.

It would take another blow-up for this to happen, but knowing the Clippers, who is to say this is out of the realm of possibility? If the Clippers have yet another disappointing season then I could absolutely see Kawhi opting out of his deal for greener pastures.

Leonard has not showcased franchise loyalty to this point in his career and I don’t think that would change for the Clippers. If he is not in an ideal basketball situation then he can and will leave, and what better place to go than to the Lakers, where he can essentially stay put and contend for a title on a better team?

This would take LeBron James opting out of his contract and signing a lesser deal but the idea of playing alongside Kawhi Leonard might be too good to pass up on.

The one thing about this possibility is that it would not necessarily be a long-term option. As we said, Leonard has not showcased much franchise loyalty in his career and he will be 30.