NBA: 5 takeaways from Kawhi Leonard-DeMar DeRozan trade

1. Spurs getting the better end of the deal

From the Raptors’ side, they felt a change was needed after seeing their postseason runs come to an end at the hands of the Cavaliers the last three years. The firing of Casey was bad enough, and with James opting to sign with the Lakers, the team’s biggest obstacle was removed.

From a positive side, when healthy, Leonard is one of the best two-way players in the league. He has also won the Defensive player of the Year award twice and he was a key contributor during the Spurs’ title run back in 2014. Leonard’s best season took place in 2016-17, when he compiled averages of 25.5 points, 5.8 rebounds and 3.5 assists per contest on 38 percent shooting from beyond the arc.

Looking at this from the Spurs’ point of view, they didn’t want to part ways with Leonard, and for obvious reasons. But once he demanded a trade, the team took a slow, deliberate approach to see what kind of package it could acquire for the two-time All-Star forward.

There were multiple teams that were interested in acquiring Leonard’s services, including the Lakers, Clippers, 76ers and Celtics. However, it is believed the Raptors offered the best package from a short-term perspective, which makes sense for a team that doesn’t want to rebuild.

Although DeRozan isn’t in the same stratosphere as Leonard on the defensive end of the court, the Spurs are getting a proven scorer who can hurt opposing teams in a number of different ways. Also, adding DeRozan to play alongside LaMarcus Aldridge should allow the Spurs to remain competitive in the conference playoff race.

Even more important, the Spurs have a perennial All-Star in the fold for at least two more seasons, while Leonard will more than likely walk after next season.

Next: NBA Trade Grades - Spurs move Kawhi Leonard to Raptors

In other words, the Spurs may have gotten the better end of this deal.