The Golden State Warriors are once again set to dominate offseason headlines, with their relentless pursuit of Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo expected to heat up once more. After coming up short at the 2026 trade deadline (settling for moves like acquiring Kristaps Porzingis instead), the seven-time champions are poised for another aggressive swing at the two-time MVP. But if the Giannis dream falls through again—as many insiders predict—there’s a compelling “Plan B” waiting in the wings: Kawhi Leonard of the Los Angeles Clippers.
ESPN Warriors insider Anthony Slater made it crystal clear on The Hoop Collective podcast (February 13-14, 2026): “He’d (Leonard) be an obvious Warriors candidate as well. Obviously, they’ve been in the Giannis chase, but they need a big wing who can score and defend.” Slater’s comments align with broader league buzz: multiple teams “investigated” Leonard trades at the deadline (per Brian Windhorst), though nothing materialized amid the Clippers’ moves (trading James Harden and Ivica Zubac). With the Clippers hovering around .500 (slow start but playoff push potential), and Leonard entering the final year of his deal in 2026-27 ($50.3M player option), summer trade talks could intensify—especially if LA pivots to rebuild mode.
Why Kawhi Fits the Warriors Perfectly
At 34, Leonard is still performing at an elite level in 2025-26: averaging 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 2.1 steals per game through 41 appearances (per ESPN and NBA.com). He’s shooting 49.1% FG, 38.3% from three (his seventh straight season over 36%), and 91.2% FT—numbers that scream two-way dominance. Kawhi’s mid-range mastery, post-up game, and elite perimeter defense would complement Stephen Curry’s gravity and Jimmy Butler’s (assuming health) tenacity. Add his championship pedigree (two Finals MVPs, proven closer), and he’s the ideal “big wing” to elevate Golden State’s contention window.
The Warriors’ core needs exactly this: scoring punch and defensive versatility on the wing. Curry remains the engine, but injuries and age have exposed gaps. Leonard—when healthy—delivers both ends without demanding the ball constantly, fitting seamlessly into Steve Kerr’s motion offense.
The Giannis Chase: Still Priority No. 1
Warriors fans know the script: Golden State has dangled massive packages (Jonathan Kuminga, Brandin Podziemski, draft capital, even Draymond Green routes) for Antetokounmpo multiple times. Bucks’ struggles and Giannis’ win-now mindset keep the door cracked, but Milwaukee’s reluctance (especially on taking back heavy contracts) suggests another miss is likely. If that happens, pivoting to Leonard avoids overpaying for an uncertain superstar while adding proven pedigree.
Challenges and Realism
- Contract/Health: Leonard’s load management and injury history (though he’s played 41 games this season) raise flags. His $50M+ salary requires matching (Andrew Wiggins? Young pieces? Picks?).
- Clippers’ Stance: LA has shown willingness to listen (post-deadline buzz), but Kawhi holds leverage with his player option.
- Competition: Other teams (Detroit Pistons, potential others) could jump in if Clippers sell.
For Warriors Nation, this is tantalizing: a Curry-Leonard-Butler core could be championship-caliber, blending shooting, defense, and clutch play. Slater calls it “obvious” for a reason—the fit is seamless.
Offseason 2026: Giannis sweepstakes first, but if that door closes, Kawhi Leonard could be the move that pushes Golden State back to the mountaintop. The Dubs are hunting stars again—stay tuned, because the Bay could get a whole lot scarier.