Free agent Kobe Sanders, who earned a spot in the Clippers’ starting lineup last season, agreed to a four-year, $11 million deal to return to the team on Tuesday, according to a team source.
In addition to locking down Sanders, the Clippers are expected to guarantee guard Kris Dunn’s $5.7 million contract for the 2026-27 season.
The two moves come on the same day the Clippers agreed to send All-NBA forward Kawhi Leonard to the Toronto Raptors in exchange for forward Brandon Ingram and other compensation.
Sanders’ deal is slightly above his minimum salary and uses the Clippers’ non-Bird rights to guarantee the first year.
A second-round pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, he averaged 7.3 points, 2.3 rebounds and 1.6 assists while shooting 46.6% from the field over 68 games (16 starts) as a rookie. His shooting efficiency and defensive instincts made him a permanent fixture in the Clippers’ rotation
The 6-foot-8 wing initially signed a two-way contract with the Clippers, but that was converted to a standard deal in February.
Coach Tyronn Lue said during the season that he supported Dunn getting a guaranteed deal. A defensive standout, he averaged 7.3 points, 3.3 rebounds, 3.6 assists and 1.6 steals over 82 games.
“He’s gonna be guaranteed regardless. … As long as I’m here, I want KD,” Lue said when asked about Dunn’s incentive to earn a guaranteed deal if he made the All-Defensive team.
Dunn is currently on a three-year, $16.2 million deal that he signed in 2024 as part of a sign-and-trade with the Utah Jazz.