Lakers projected to pry Clippers’ $149 million, seven-time All-Star and two-time NBA champion away

The 2027 offseason may still be some distance away, but that hasn’t stopped analysts from identifying potential marquee targets who could eventually draw the interest of the Los Angeles Lakers.

According to Clipperholics writer Iliyan Lakhani, the Lakers could find themselves in position to lure away the Los Angeles Clippers’ seven-time All-Star and two-time NBA champion, Kawhi Leonard.

Reflecting on the past, Lakhani noted that before one of the Clippers’ most significant signings in franchise history, Leonard was firmly on the Lakers’ radar. The organization was eager to see him don the purple and gold — the same iconic uniform that has produced 17 championships — but Leonard ultimately chose a different path.

Because of that history, Lakhani argues that if another opportunity presents itself during the 2027 offseason, the Lakers will almost certainly revisit their pursuit of the veteran superstar. Financially, the franchise would be well-positioned to construct a deal capable of meeting Leonard’s salary demands. Beyond that, Leonard has demonstrated that performing at a top-10 level in his mid-30s remains well within reach, as evidenced by his impressive averages this season — 27.9 points per game on highly efficient shooting splits.

There is strong logic behind that evaluation. Before Leonard committed to the Clippers in 2019, the Lakers were widely considered a serious contender for his services. At the time, his choice to join the Clippers rather than the Lakers was viewed as a major setback for the purple and gold.

Now, years later, circumstances could potentially shift again. Should Leonard become available in 2027, the Lakers might have another opportunity to persuade the San Diego State product to bring his talents to what many regard as the NBA’s flagship franchise in Los Angeles.

Even at 34 years old, Leonard continues to showcase his elite two-way ability. He is currently averaging 27.9 points and 2.1 steals per game while shooting an efficient 49.1 percent from the field and 38.3 percent from three-point range. Those numbers underscore that he remains one of the league’s most impactful players on both ends of the floor.

Given that sustained level of production, it would not be unreasonable for the Lakers to expect Leonard to remain an elite contributor into the following season. His ability to score at will, defend at a high level, and elevate his performance in key moments has long defined his reputation as one of the NBA’s premier stars.

If the situation unfolds as projected, the leverage could shift significantly in favor of the Lakers during the 2027 offseason. With cap flexibility and the appeal of joining one of the league’s most decorated franchises, Los Angeles would likely present a compelling destination.

Ultimately, while 2027 remains over the horizon, speculation has already begun regarding how the Lakers might approach that pivotal summer. Should Leonard’s future with the Clippers come into question, the Lakers appear poised to position themselves as serious contenders for his signature once again.

When that moment arrives, the decision could rest squarely in the Lakers’ hands.