NBA Finds No Evidence of Cap Circumvention by Clippers, Focuses on Supervision Issues
The NBA has concluded its investigation into the Los Angeles Clippers regarding allegations that owner Steve Ballmer funneled money to Kawhi Leonard to bypass the salary cap, finding no evidence to support this claim, according to a report by ESPN. Instead, the league is examining whether the team's introductions of Leonard to sponsors violated any league rules, specifically looking into a potential "failure to supervise" their employees. In a statement, the NBA addressed inaccuracies in the ESPN report, asserting that the investigation's results will be clarified once it concludes. The investigation has been ongoing for about 11 months, stemming from prior reports by podcaster Pablo Torre about possible endorsement deals involving Leonard and sponsors like Aspiration and Daktronics. Key points from the investigation include: ESPN reported that the NBA is negotiating a resolution, drawing comparisons to the Minnesota Timberwolves case where severe penalties were imposed for similar violations. Sources suggest that charges of cap circumvention based solely on player introductions to sponsors are unlikely to succeed in arbitration. The Clippers have consistently denied any wrongdoing, emphasizing that their relationships with sponsors are based on standard business practices and have no connection to Leonard's endorsements. As for Kawhi Leonard, he is entering the final season of a three-year, $149.5 million contract with the Clippers. Despite the ongoing investigation, there are no indications that his current deal could be voided. With speculation about a potential trade to the Toronto Raptors, the situation remains fluid as the NBA and Clippers work towards a resolution.
Source: CBS Sports - 2026-08-17