The future of the San Antonio Spurs’ franchise was in doubt when Kawhi Leonard requested a trade this offseason.
Gregg Popovich and R.C. Buford planned on building their team around Kawhi after moving on from the era of Tim Duncan, Tony Parker, and Manu Ginobili, but they were forced to pivot when Leonard became unhappy with the organization.
Fortunately the Spurs were able to make a solid deal with the Raptors and get an All-NBA player, Jakob Poeltl, and a first round pick in exchange for Kawhi and Danny Green.
DeMar DeRozan came into this season with some extra motivation after he felt betrayed by the franchise he committed to just a couple of years ago.