NBA News Roundup, Wednesday, August 7th: Dwyane wade rules out linking up with LeBron James for the Lakers, Carmelo Anthony backed to return to the Nuggets and more

#3 Kawhi Leonard's negotiating skills surprised Western Conference executives

Kawhi Leonard enjoyed a stunning season with the Toronto Raptors

Earlier this summer, the majority of the NBA's top free agents promptly decided where they would spend the upcoming season, although Kawhi Leonard kept NBA teams waiting for what seemed like an eternity. The Finals MVP eventually opted to sign for the Clippers, and his ability to convince Paul George to leave Oklahoma City for LA was a huge talking point.

Heading into the summer, many doubted Leonard's ability to recruit, and an unnamed executive told The Athletic that the 28-year-old's negotiating skills were the talk of Summer League.

So much of the chatter coming out of summer league centered around a sort of dumbfounded-ness that Kawhi Leonard could operate as such a shrewd negotiator.

Leonard opted to leave the Raptors after just one-season although his ability to deliver a first title to the franchise has led to many labeling him as the NBA's best player.