Kawhi Leonard’s Toronto return, Atlantic Division roundup

There were no Atlantic Division games on Monday, but it was still a meaningful day around the conference, headlined by a long-awaited return in Toronto and roster maneuvering in Brooklyn and Philadelphia. In the early standings, the Nets sit on top at 3-0, followed by the 2-0 Celtics. The Raptors are 1-1, the 76ers 1-2, and the Knicks are still searching for their first win at 0-3.

Toronto Raptors: Kawhi back in uniform, Sharp chasing two-way deal

As relayed by Hoops Rumors, head coach Darko Rajakovic said star forward Kawhi Leonard will be available on Tuesday and will suit up for the Raptors, his first game action for Toronto since the club clinched its 2019 NBA title in Game 6 of the Finals. Rajakovic indicated on Monday that Leonard went through practice in preparation for the return, which comes with the Raptors sitting at 1-1.

Hoops Rumors also reports that free agent center Jamarion Sharp is signing with the Raptors and will compete for a two-way contract, according to Blake Murphy of Sportsnet. Toronto’s preseason roster is already at the 21-player limit, so the front office will have to waive someone to create room for Sharp.

Brooklyn Nets: back-end cuts and Brown Jr. nearing debut

On the transaction front, the 3-0 Nets waived guard Dion Brown and forward Dain Dainja on Sunday, per the NBA’s transaction log, as cited by Hoops Rumors. Both were on Exhibit 10 deals and could wind up in the G League with the Long Island Nets. They’re eligible for a bonus worth up to $91K if they meet the necessary requirements.

In more positive news, lottery pick Mikel Brown Jr., selected sixth overall in June’s draft, is expected to make his preseason debut on Wednesday in Miami, according to Brian Lewis of The New York Post via Hoops Rumors. Brown Jr. had been sidelined since late September after spraining his left ankle.

Philadelphia 76ers: LeBron’s early imprint

For the 1-2 76ers, Hoops Rumors passes along reporting from Tony Jones of The Athletic, who writes that LeBron James’ imprint on the team is already clear. James has brought changes to the locker room environment and to the Sixers’ playing style. Jones notes that James is adjusting to a completely new roster, a first for him since he signed with Philadelphia.

Celtics and Knicks: standings hold, news cycle quiet

The Boston Celtics (2-0) remain firmly near the top of the division behind Brooklyn, but there were no notable headlines emerging from their camp on Monday in the available reports. The same goes for the New York Knicks (0-3), who were idle and stayed out of the news as they look ahead to their first shot at getting into the win column.