Spurs, Leonard reportedly agree to 5-year max extension worth $90M-plus
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Kawhi Leonard isn't going anywhere.
The small forward and the San Antonio Spurs have reportedly agreed to the framework of a five-year deal that would be worth more than $90 million, according to Yahoo Sports' Adrian Wojnarowksi.
"I have every intention of signing with the San Antonio Spurs," Leonard said in a statement, according to Wojnarowski. "There are details in the contract which need to be worked out with the organization. I am confident that this will be accomplished."
The specifics that need to be worked out are unclear, as the framework would see Leonard earn the maximum given his years of experience. It's possible Leonard wants the flexibility of an early-termination option ahead of the fifth season on a deal, or that there are non-salary elements being ironed out. However, this deal is all but done.
Spurs officials didn't take long to lock up the rising star, reaching out to Leonard's agents shortly after midnight Wednesday to come to terms on a new contract, Wojnarowski reports. It was never believed that Leonard would walk, with both sides wanting to come to terms promptly to then turn their focus to fortifying the core in free agency.
There's no denying the fact Leonard is clearly deserving of this massive pay increase, with the 24-year-old already owning an NBA championship ring, NBA Finals Most Valuable Player award, and NBA Defensive Player of the Year award on his ever-growing resume.
Leonard averaged 16.5 points on 47.9 percent shooting from the field and 34.9 percent from long range in 2014-15. He also chipped in 7.2 rebounds and a league-high 2.3 steals in 64 regular-season appearances while playing some of the best perimeter defense in the league.
With Leonard now essentially locked up - it doesn't make sense to make it official quite yet, as his cap hold is less than his new salary - the Spurs are eyeing unrestricted free agent LaMarcus Aldridge, who will meet with the team Wednesday morning.