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Toronto Raptors: Kawhi Leonard reportedly open to staying in Toronto

By David Morassutti

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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There is a lot of uncertainty about Kawhi Leonard’s future with the Toronto Raptors after this season, but it appears he’s not closing the door on staying.

Toronto Raptors fans have heard the constant talk about Kawhi Leonard‘s desire to play in Los Angeles, which can’t be easy considering the aftermath of the DeMar DeRozan trade.

While some still believe it’s a longshot that Leonard stays in Toronto, it is not as certain as it was when the trade was first reported.

This is why any report about his future is going to be examined with a fine tooth comb and Jabari Young from San Antonio Express-News provided one that seems to favour the Raptors.

Young recently appeared on TSN 1050’s Overdrive to speak about Leonard’s plan going into this season and his approach in the offseason.

"“Based off of me talking to people within his circle, they’re going to go into this thing with an open mind and give this thing every last opportunity to work. And at the end of the day, if that’s the case, then it would be great if he stays,” said Young. “Obviously, I think part of his mind, yes, let’s keep real: I think he still feels like L.A. might be the destination. At the same time, he plans to go into this thing with an open mind, giving it every single shot in the world to make it work.”"

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It is curious to see Young say this after news broke that the Raptors were hiring a good friend of Leonard in Jeremy Castleberry, to be a part of the coaching staff.

While my colleague Paul Taylor doesn’t believe that the hiring will change Leonard’s decision in the end, you can’t count out the resources MLSE will be willing to provide Masai Ujiri, if there’s a possibility that he can be convinced.

Obviously, the ability to offer Leonard a max contract is something no other team can do, but in today’s NBA there are more factors that come into play.

Looking at LeBron James‘ decision to leave Cleveland and the opportunity to grow his brand with the Los Angeles Lakers, it makes sense based on his focus on life after basketball.

Now Leonard is not like James with the way he conducts himself off the court, so maybe the bright lights of L.A. might not appeal to him? At this point it’s tough to say, because the only time he’s addressed the media is his open letter to Spurs fans.

At least the Raptors can be thrilled to see him on the court training with a star-studded photo as evidence, considering the various reports about his health.

Next. Kay Felder aiming to beat the odds. dark

Until Leonard finally goes in front of the media all the talk about his future remains as speculation, so it’s tough to rule out any possibilities about where he plays after this season.

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