OKC Thunder: Peers get it wrong placing Sam Presti 2nd in Executive of Year

Frank benefits from Leonard’s predetermined choice

Prior to this season, teams voiced their concerns over other teams doing the same thing with upcoming free agents. No doubt, the Bucks were at the forefront of this discussion wanting the league to clamp down on teams replicating this process. To wit, back to back MVP, Giannis Antetokounmpo will be the most coveted potential free agent in the 2020-21 offseason.

Since Leonard clearly wanted to join the Clippers it created a unique situation where Frank only had to ensure he met the requirements of the star. Even the addition of Paul George wasn’t something the Clippers instigated.

Rather, it was during the Clippers pitch to Kawhi Leonard they learned he wanted another star talent. The Clippers showed Leonard a list of other top talents and spotting Paul George’s name on the list Leonard specified he was who he wanted the Clippers to add to the roster.

Prior to Leonard meeting with each of the LA clubs and the Raptors he did some of his own recruiting trying to convince Jimmy Butler and Kevin Durant to join him.

With those two stars having their sights set on Miami and Brooklyn respectively Leonard moved onto George. Frank also made moves at the trade deadline picking up Marcus Morris and picking up Reggie Jackson off waivers.

In hindsight, it’s possible the executives would’ve voted differently if the bubble games had been part of their consideration. It’s also equally likely if they voted today Pat Riley would take the top spot considering his Heat are in the NBA Finals.

Riley made excellent draft additions with Tyler Herro and Kendrick Nunn who both became an integral part of the Heat core. Adding Andre Iguodala and Jae Crowder at the trade deadline created a well-balanced roster and were key to Miami’s success.