Boston's Rival Still Waiting on Unfinished Blockbuster Deal

September 10, 2026 - 16:26

The Kawhi Leonard trade agreed to more than two months ago still hasn't been finalized.

When the Los Angeles Clippers and Toronto Raptors reached an agreement in principle back in July, most observers expected the paperwork to be signed within days. Instead, the deal has lingered in a strange state of limbo, leaving both franchises in an awkward position as the new season approaches.

The hold-up reportedly centers on the final details of the package. While the core pieces are known, the two sides have struggled to agree on the exact structure of draft compensation and the inclusion of certain role players. Talks have continued at a slow pace, with neither team willing to walk away from a deal that both sides believe makes sense.

For the Celtics, the delay matters. Boston competes in the same conference as Toronto, and a weakened or distracted Raptors roster could shift the balance of power in the East. If the trade collapses entirely, Toronto might keep a disgruntled star, creating a different kind of problem. If it goes through, a rival reloads.

League sources suggest a resolution is still expected, but the timeline remains unclear. Until the signatures are on the page, one of the summer's biggest moves stays frozen in place.