Raptors Urged to Bring Back Former Star to Pair with Kawhi

The franchise made a dramatic sweep in the 2026 offseason, sending Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick and a handful of draft selections to the Clippers in exchange for Kawhi Leonard. The 35‑year‑old Leonard helped guide Toronto to a championship in 2018‑19, arguably his peak season, but age and wear have altered his game. To contend next year, the Raptors will likely need additional firepower or defensive stability. That calculus has sparked talk of recruiting another former Raptor who could complement the star wing.

Possible DeRozan Reunion

DeMar DeRozan spent nine seasons in Toronto, earning four All‑Star nods and multiple MVP votes. He was part of the deal that originally moved Kawhi to the city, so the two never shared the floor together. The veteran wing was cut by the Sacramento Kings after a cost‑saving move, and he averaged 18.4 points, 4.1 assists and 2.9 rebounds in the 2025‑26 season while shooting close to 50 percent from the field. Sam Quinn of CBS Sports listed the Raptors as a logical destination, noting that DeRozan could provide a reliable mid‑range threat off the bench.

Quinn’s analysis highlighted the Raptors’ shooting dilemmas and the rise of Scottie Barnes as a potential offensive mainstay when Kawhi rests. “It comes down to how much faith Toronto has in its ability to score when Leonard is on the bench,” he wrote. The Raptors could use DeRozan’s veteran presence and mid‑range touch, especially if they decide to stagger their star wing. Bringing DeRozan back would also give fans a nostalgic homecoming and add depth to a squad looking to re‑establish itself among the league’s elite.

Why Another Piece May Be Needed

After the Ingram‑Dick trade, the Raptors now feature a 35‑year‑oldKawhi as their centerpiece, which raises questions about his durability for a full 2026‑27 campaign. A supporting cast with shooting and versatile scoring could alleviate the burden on Leonard and give Toronto more lineup flexibility. Acquiring a proven scorer like DeRozan would address both the offensive spacing and veteran leadership gaps identified by analysts. If the front office acts on the speculation, another reunion could become a cornerstone of the team’s rebuilding narrative.