Kawhi Leonard Extends With Raptors, While Clippers Face Steep Penalties
Leonard signs a new deal and avoids suspension after an NBA investigation into the Clippers' dealings.
Kawhi Leonard has agreed to a two-year, $115 million contract extension with the Toronto Raptors, including a player option for the 2028-29 season. The 35-year-old is now under contract for three years and is expected to finish his career with the Raptors.
This development comes as the Los Angeles Clippers face significant repercussions following an NBA investigation into salary cap circumvention rules related to Leonard's 2021 contract extension. Clippers owner Steve Ballmer has been suspended for one year, the team will forfeit five first-round draft picks, and they have been fined $30 million.
In contrast, Leonard received a $700,000 fine, and his uncle and former agent, Dennis Robertson, has been banned from all business dealings and league activities for five years. Leonard himself was not suspended, and his trade to the Raptors proceeded.
The NBA's investigation stemmed from allegations that the Clippers provided improper benefits to Leonard outside of the salary cap. According to the NBA's findings, Leonard signed deals with companies such as Aspiration, Boingo, Daktronics, and Lockton. Details indicate a $700,000 payment from the Clippers for off-court deals, including a $20 million equity stake in Aspiration, a company that later went bankrupt. It remains unclear to what extent Leonard was aware of the arrangements.
The Justice Department has also reportedly opened a criminal inquiry into the Clippers' dealings with Leonard, according to The New York Times. While Leonard moves forward with his career, the Clippers face a prolonged period of rebuilding due to the loss of draft capital and the penalties imposed.
This situation contrasts sharply with Leonard's career trajectory, allowing him to potentially finish his career with the Raptors, a team he led to a championship in 2019. The penalties levied against the Clippers, including the forfeiture of draft picks and Ballmer's suspension, are intended to address the alleged violations and deter future occurrences.