Kawhi Leonard scores 21 points in Raptors preseason debut against Knicks

Kawhi Leonard made his preseason debut with the Toronto Raptors on October 13, 2026, scoring 21 points in just 17 minutes during an emphatic 148-98 victory over the New York Knicks. The Raptors coach, Darko Rajakovic, noted the significance of Leonard's return to Toronto, where he previously led the team to an NBA title. Leonard, who was recently traded from the Los Angeles Clippers after a scandal involving salary cap violations, displayed his shooting ability, hitting four 3-pointers. He did not participate in the second half, but his performance contributed to the team's strong overall display, with five players reaching double figures in scoring. Leonard signed a two-year, $115 million extension with the Raptors last month.

• 1:34 AMYahoo Sports — Kawhi Leonard drops 21 points in opening half of Raptors preseason debut after Clippers trade, scandal