nypost
The NBA's investigation into Kawhi Leonard and the Los Angeles Clippers may not conclude until 2027, but that has not derailed the blockbuster trade that would send the star forward back to the Toronto Raptors. According to ESPN's Baxter Holmes, both franchises still intend to finalize the deal despite the ongoing probe.
The nearly year-long investigation centers on a four-year, $28 million endorsement agreement Leonard received from Aspiration, a now-bankrupt company that previously had a major sponsorship deal with the Clippers. League officials are examining whether the endorsement was legitimate or an improper method of funneling additional money to Leonard outside his NBA contract. Clippers owner Steve Ballmer admitted to introducing Leonard to Aspiration but denied arranging or knowing about the endorsement agreement. Both the Clippers and Leonard have consistently denied any wrongdoing.
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Holmes reported that the investigation could stretch into 2027 if the league, Clippers, Leonard, and the National Basketball Players Association cannot agree on the findings or any proposed punishment. The union is reportedly prepared to take the case to arbitration if it believes the NBA attempts to discipline Leonard without sufficient evidence, a process that could add months to the timeline. The trade, agreed upon on June 30, would send Leonard back to the franchise he led to the 2019 championship, with the Clippers receiving a package headlined by Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, and multiple draft picks. However, the transaction was placed on hold after the NBA informed Toronto that it would assume the risk of any punishment affecting Leonard once the trade becomes official. Potential discipline could include fines, lost draft picks, suspensions for team personnel, or even the voiding of Leonard's contract. Exactly how any penalty would affect a completed trade remains unclear, explaining the Raptors' reluctance to finalize the deal before the league reaches a decision. Despite the uncertainty, the Raptors' desire to reunite with Leonard has not changed. Shortly after the trade agreement, Raptors president Masai Ujiri expressed confidence in Leonard's mindset, stating, 'He is determined and seems in the right frame of mind. You will be hearing from him shortly. I think there is a fire inside of him and we are all excited about that.' The 35-year-old is coming off a career-best scoring season, averaging 27.9 points across 65 appearances. NBA commissioner Adam Silver recently expressed hope that the investigation would conclude before the regular season, but no formal deadline has been announced. The Raptors and Clippers are preparing to move forward while waiting for a process they cannot control. Leonard's return to Toronto still appears to be the expected outcome, with the only question being whether it happens before training camp, before the regular season, or after the investigation becomes a problem that follows both teams into 2027.
Originally reported by nypost.