NBA trade rumors: Cavaliers inquired about potential deal for Kawhi Leonard

The Cavaliers recently explored a potential trade for Kawhi Leonard, according to a report from USA Today.

Cleveland contacted the Spurs to discuss a possible deal for the 26-year-old star. But, the trade talks did not gain traction, according to the report.

In this piece, explored the Kawhi situation a bit: Cavs have inquired, I’m told, but no traction. Spurs telling West teams to pound salt, will send him East - if anywhere at all. https://t.co/9RW8J1Inxv

— Sam Amick (@sam_amick) June 23, 2018

Leonard no longer wants to play in San Antonio, according to multiple reports from earlier this month. The Lakers are Leonard’s preferred trade destination, according to a report from ESPN.

The Spurs, however, would prefer to send Leonard to an Eastern Conference team if they do decide to trade him, USA Today’s report says.

Leonard signed a five-year contract, worth more than $90 million, with the Spurs in 2015. But he appeared in just nine games for San Antonio in 2017-18 because of an injured right quad, and had a tense relationship with the team throughout his rehab process, according to multiple reports.

The former All-Star has averaged 16.3 points and 6.2 rebounds over his seven-year career.

The Cavaliers finished last season with a 50-32 record. They advanced to their fourth straight NBA Finals, where they were swept by the Warriors.

Cleveland star LeBron James could opt out of his contract and become a free agent this summer. The Cavaliers are reportedly interested in a trade for Hornets point guard Kemba Walker.