The Golden State Warriors made a strong attempt to trade for Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard ahead of the February deadline, but Clippers governor Steve Ballmer ultimately shut down the possibility, league sources told ESPN.
Golden State had checked in on Leonard’s status multiple times in past years and had consistently been turned away.
This instance felt different, though, as the Clippers appeared open to changes after moving James Harden and holding discussions with several teams that eventually led to a deal with the Indiana Pacers involving Ivica Zubac.
The Warriors’ proposal was said to include significant draft assets along with several key players.
Los Angeles reviewed the offer and presented it to Ballmer, but by the morning of the deadline, the decision was firmly to decline.
There are conflicting views on how serious the negotiations became. From the Warriors’ perspective, it seemed like the Clippers were giving real consideration to the idea.
However, on the Clippers’ side, Ballmer’s stance was described as firm and non-negotiable.
Steve Ballmer Rejected Warriors’ Pursuit Of Kawhi Leonard At Trade Deadline https://t.co/lp1iQu4Ekq
— RealGM (@RealGM) April 20, 2026
