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Toronto Raptors: Kahwi Leonard passes his physical

By Paul Taylor

LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Kawhi Leonard #2 of the San Antonio Spurs looks on during the first half of a game against the Los Angeles Lakers at Staples Center on November 18, 2016 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Kawhi Leonard #2 of the San Antonio Spurs looks on during the first half of a game against the Los Angeles Lakers at Staples Center on November 18, 2016 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images) /
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According to a report from ESPN, Kahwi Leonard is now officially a member of the Toronto Raptors after passing his physical.

On Tuesday, we shared a report relating to Kawhi Leonard‘s physical. More specifically, that the Toronto Raptors would keep quite about the details, in order to gain his trust.

This was as a result of details being leaked last season, regarding ongoing issues with a right quadriceps injury which limited Leonard to nine games. He lost faith in the San Antonio Spurs, after believing his reputation was unfairly damaged.

Understandably, some Raptors fans were unsure about this approach, due to concerns about if the 27-year-old would be healthy enough to contribute regularly next season. However, some information has now emerged, which should make everyone feel at least slightly better.

As reported by ESPN‘s Brian Windhorst, Leonard has passed his physical, which apparently took place on Saturday. As such, he is now officially a member of the Toronto Raptors.

Windhorst relayed the information, as gathered from sources. Given the reference to sources, is it at all possible Leonard will wonder, as with the Spurs, if he can trust the Raptors?

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In all likelihood, you would assume the 2014 NBA Finals MVP will not develop the same trust issues based on this latest development. After all, even he must understand the importance of the public knowing he has at least passed his physical, if nothing else.

To not release this information would only intensify concerns that Leonard is still not fit and healthy. Especially with him reportedly not attending this week’s Team USA camp in Las Vegas.

Further, the two-time NBA Defensive Player of the Year surely appreciates the Raptors would not intentionally do anything to sabotage their relationship with him. He knows they want to re-sign him next summer and keep him in Toronto, no matter how realistic this ambition may or may not be.

As a final point, it’s worth noting this week’s Team USA Camp is not mandatory. As ESPN‘s Chris Haynes reported, Leonard would rather use the time to transition to his new team, which is actually a good sign for the Raptors – at least in the short-term.

Next: Confidant believes Kawhi Leonard will re-sign with Toronto

Taking the updated status of Leonard’s health into account, what kind of production are you predicting for him next season? Do you expect him to have enough of an impact to take the Toronto Raptors deep into the playoffs? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

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