Fred Van Vleet had a funny but insightful take on Kawhi Leonard’s return to the Toronto Raptors.
When asked about Kawhi Leonard’s comeback to Toronto, Fred Van Vleet kept it straightforward.
Position SF, SG
Age 35
Height 198 cm
Weight 102 kg
Birth place Riverside, United States of America
The former Raptors player gave a candid and amusing response when he was asked about Leonard rejoining the team this offseason.
“I mean, listen, they didn’t get worse,” a smiling Van Vleet told reporters during the Raptors’ special retirement event for Kyle Lowry. “It didn’t get worse.”
“I’m excited for the city. I’m excited for the organization. It’s good to see [Kawhi Leonard] back and yeah, they’ll be a damn good team, especially in the East. They gonna be a tough out.”
Kawhi Leonard rejoins Toronto Raptors
Kawhi Leonard is officially back with the Toronto Raptors, as the Los Angeles Clippers sent him north in exchange for Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, and some future draft picks.
This whole process took several months since the trade announcement back in June amid an investigation into the Clippers’ salary cap issues along with their star player.
Leonard’s return marks a significant moment between him and the franchise. He had an incredible single-season performance in 2018-19 that led to the Raptors winning their first-ever NBA championship.
Now he’s back to mentor Scottie Barnes, RJ Barrett, and help shape Toronto’s promising future while aiming to elevate their title aspirations.
Kawhi Leonard already planned to leave Toronto after infamous Spurs trade
Fred Van Vleet’s recent comments regarding Kawhi Leonard’s return can’t help but spark interest considering what he previously said about Leonard’s initial reaction when traded to Toronto in 2018.
According to Van Vleet, Leonard was utterly confused and eager to leave after his shocking trade from the San Antonio Spurs.
The rest is history. Despite having plans to move on from Toronto just one season later, Leonard still came through when it counted most.
