Kawhi Leonard trade on hold as Raptors, Clippers await results of NBA investigation
CBS Sports • • general
Key Points:
- The planned trade sending Kawhi Leonard from the LA Clippers back to the Toronto Raptors is on hold pending the NBA's investigation into Leonard's sponsorship deal with Aspiration, which could impact his contract status.
- The Raptors agreed to send Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, and multiple future draft picks to the Clippers in exchange for Leonard, but will wait for the investigation's outcome to avoid risking losing Leonard if his contract is voided.
- The NBA investigation, initiated after allegations that Clippers owner Steve Ballmer circumvented the salary cap via Aspiration payments to Leonard, is being conducted independently and is reportedly nearing completion.
- NBA Commissioner Adam Silver emphasized the need for a timely resolution to provide clarity for Leonard, the involved teams, and the rest of the league, which has already planned for Leonard to play in Toronto next season.
- If Leonard's contract is voided and he becomes a free agent, it could disrupt league plans significantly, as most teams have limited salary cap space to sign a player of his caliber.
