Kawhi Leonard could cash in because of Kevin Durant, LeBron James
By Bryan Rose
While nobody knows what Kevin Durant plans to do come his pending free agency, it appears that most of the NBA is putting themselves in position to have as much salary cap room as possible.
More from Kevin Durant
- Steph Curry still defends Kevin Durant: ‘Most misunderstood dude’ in the NBA
- Spicy Kevin Durant returns, argues with random NBA fans on Twitter
- Kevin Durant’s latest Tweet comes with a hilarious challenge for fans
- The new NBA flopping rules explained
- Is Kevin Durant playing tonight? Latest injury update for Suns vs. Timberwolves
After all, it’s not just Kevin Durant who will be a free agent in 2016 but possibly LeBron James as well. Needless to say, the small forward market could be rather stacked, especially if Kawhi Leonard of the San Antonio Spurs decides to put himself on the market as well.
Up for a contract extension, the 2014 NBA Finals MVP could possibly get a near max-level extension with the San Antonio Spurs or he could wait an additional year and try to get more money from those NBA franchises left at the alter by Kevin Durant and possibly LeBron James.
"Do you take, say, slightly less than the max now to remain with the Spurs, and be the focal point of a team that’s built championship contenders for more than a decade? Or do you sign a one-year deal next summer in order to hit unrestricted free agency in 2016, when half the league will have cap room in order to make runs at James or Kevin Durant?"
In the past the San Antonio Spurs have all but refused to let their big name players get anywhere near free agency and it’s likely they’ll do everything in their power to bring Kawhi Leonard back.
The looming question is what the former San Diego State product will do. Will Kawhi Leonard take the Spurs offer? Or will he take a risk and roll the dice in free agency?
More on FanSided.com
NBA Power Rankings: Breaking down the divisions
Golden State Warriors’ new arena design
Boston Celtics don’t intend on trading Rajon Rondo
Dirk Nowitzki’s shot to extend Dallas Mavericks career?
Phil Jackson takes another shot at Tyson Chandler