Raptors' Kawhi Leonard thanks Spurs, Gregg Popovich, San Antonio fans in letter

Scott Gleeson | USA TODAY

Show Caption Hide Caption Spurs and Raptors swap superstars in Leonard and DeRozan Sports Pulse: USA TODAY Sports' Jeff Zillgitt breaks down the blockbuster trade between San Antonio and Toronto.

All-Star forward Kawhi Leonard broke his silence for the first time since his blockbuster trade from the Spurs to the Raptors, issuing a public letter thanking his former teammates, the city of San Antonio and Spurs coach Gregg Popovich.

“I have been going back and forth the last few weeks trying to figure out the right things to say,” Leonard wrote, “and it comes down to two simple words: THANK YOU! My family and I want to say THANK YOU to the entire Spurs organization and the people and fans of San Antonio.”

Leonard was traded on July 18 in a deal that also sent Danny Green to Toronto in exchange for guard DeMar DeRozan, center Jakob Poeltl and a protected 2019 first-round pick.

The 27-year-old Leonard only played nine games in 2017-18 as he managed a quad injury with medical counsel outside the Spurs organization — leading to a contentious team-and-player relationship as Leonard's status fluctuated. Eventually, after displeasure with the Spurs organization and a rocky relationship with Popovich, the 2014 NBA Finals MVP asked to be traded — targeting the Lakers, specifically, this summer.

Kawhi Leonard releases first statements since trade to Toronto, saying goodbye to San Antonio and the Spurs: pic.twitter.com/XxSUEwbrQ6 — Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) August 9, 2018

Leonard has one year and a player option left on his contract, meaning he could join LeBron James and the Lakers next season. For 2018-19, he's making $20.1 million for a team in position to win the Eastern Conference. The Raptors tip-off vs. the Celtics on Oct. 19.

"Through all the ups and downs – I'm glad there were many more ups! – I'll never forget what we have shared and accomplished together," Leonard wrote in the letter. "While I am looking forward to the next chapter in my career, I'll always remember the city and the people of San Antonio."