The Los Angeles Clippers have a plan, and Keaton Wagler looks to be benefiting from the NBA chaos right now.
When the Clippers drafted the former Illini guard No. 5 overall, they were in a bit of a transition period. They had already sent some of their talent out, and there was one big piece remaining. On Tuesday, that big piece is being traded.
According to ESPN insider Shams Charania, Los Angeles is trading Kawhi Leonard to the Toronto Raptors.
BREAKING: The Los Angeles Clippers are nearing deal sending Kawhi Leonard to the Toronto Raptors for Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, 2 first-round picks, 1 pick swap and 2 second-rounders, sources tell ESPN. A return to Canada for the Raptors champion and two-time Finals MVP. pic.twitter.com/VovqGw5qS6
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2026
In return, the Clippers are getting a haul. This includes Brandon Ingram and Gradey Dick, along with two first round picks, one pick swap, and two second round picks.
What this trade signals to me is that the Clippers are all-in with Wagler. He doesn’t have to play Robin to Leonard’s Batman. Wagler is the Batman.
This trade fits Wagler much better than Leonard as well. Ingram likes to run the court and play around the rim. This should gel well with Wagler’s ability to create open looks for his teammates.
Los Angeles is also getting more shooting with the addition of Dick. He didn’t have much of a chance to shine with the Raptors, and now he can bring his three-point shooting ability to a team that will desperately need it.
The Los Angeles Clippers have a nice team around Keaton Wagler, and they only need a couple more additions
Wagler and Darius Garland are going to be the starting backcourt for the Clippers next season. That should be a formidable duo and one that can do just about everything on the court.
You are then looking at a frontcourt of Brook Lopez and Ingram. Those two fit well together.
On the wing, Los Angeles has options. Ben Mathurin, Derrick Jones, or Dick would be perfect out there.
I think the biggest thing for the Clippers is to get some depth. There is not much in the second unit, which is a worry. It would also be nice to see some more shooting put around Wagler.
Don’t be surprised if the Clippers are decent in 2026-27. I could see them over .500 and competing for a playoff spot without a doubt.
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