NBA hits Clippers with heavy sanctions in Kawhi Leonard case
The former Spurs forward will cost the Clippers five first-round draft picks, and that's just for starters
The NBA has imposed heavy sanctions on the Los Angeles Clippers in the Kawhi Leonard case. A months-long independent investigation found the team illegally circumvented the NBA salary cap through outside endorsement deals with Aspiration Partners, Boingo Wireless, Daktronics, and Lockton Insurance. The penalties include a $30 million fine for team owner Steve Ballmer, a year-long suspension of Clippers president Steve Ballmer, a $700,000 fine for Leonard, a five-year ban for Leonard's uncle and business manager Dennis Robertson, and the loss of five first-round draft picks over the next five years.
The investigation also led to a temporary halt in the Clippers' trade with Toronto, which was later finalized. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver expressed deep disappointment with the violations, stating they reflect the seriousness of the misconduct.
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