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Toronto Raptors: Kawhi Leonard reportedly in “remarkable” health

By Paul Taylor

PHOENIX, AZ - JANUARY 21: Kawhi Leonard #2 of the San Antonio Spurs is introduced before the NBA game against the Phoenix Suns at Talking Stick Resort Arena on January 21, 2016 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Spurs defeated the Suns 117-89. 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 Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
PHOENIX, AZ - JANUARY 21: Kawhi Leonard #2 of the San Antonio Spurs is introduced before the NBA game against the Phoenix Suns at Talking Stick Resort Arena on January 21, 2016 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Spurs defeated the Suns 117-89. 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 Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /
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A new report indicates Kawhi Leonard is in excellent health which, if true, is good news for the Toronto Raptors and their fans.

When the Toronto Raptors originally traded for Kawhi Leonard, fans were understandably excited. After all, despite losing the top player in franchise history, DeMar DeRozan was being replaced by one of the very best that the NBA has to offer.

However, this initial excitement soon gave way to concerns about the health of Leonard. Last season he only played nine games, due to a lingering quad injury which caused significant controversy.

Even when the 2014 NBA Finals MVP passed his physical, doubts remained. With this in mind, the latest development should — at least in theory — give fans reason for optimism.

As reported by Luke Adams of Hoops Rumors, Leonard has apparently looked “remarkable” during his summer workouts. As per a photo shared on Instagram last week, he has been working out in Los Angeles with the likes of LeBron James and Kevin Durant.

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The news was originally shared by Ashish Mathur of Amico Hoops. Referencing a league source, Mathur adds that Leonard is at 100 percent, with no limitations in his workouts.

As you’d expect, there will be those who question the legitimacy of the original source. Regardless, it still seems worthy of mention, in the lead-up to arguably the most important season in Raptors history.

Of course, Masai Ujiri and company will be hoping to convince Leonard to stay long-term. And they have already started their campaign to persuade him, after employing his close friend, Jeremy Castleberry.

However, there is still the very genuine possibility it will be a case of one-and-done in Toronto, for the two-time Defensive Player of the Year. In that respect, the Raptors have to make the 2018-19 season count, as they attempt to reach their first ever NBA Finals.

And the cause can only be helped if Leonard is back to full fitness; on his day, he is arguably one of the top three two-way players in the NBA. As such, Raptors fans will be hoping Mathur’s report is accurate.

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What do you make of the latest news regarding Leonard’s health? Are you optimistic, or do you disregard it? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

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