ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith described Kawhi Leonard as a "gangster" for his handling of the Los Angeles Clippers' salary-cap scandal, particularly highlighting the player's lenient punishment compared to the severe penalties levied against the franchise.
Smith made his remarks on ESPN's "First Take," expressing astonishment at the outcome for Leonard. "He broke the rules, got caught, pointed the finger at somebody else, threw the organization under the bus," Smith stated.
The NBA's investigation concluded that Leonard and the Clippers violated salary-cap rules through undisclosed off-court financial agreements. These included a reported $28 million endorsement deal with Aspiration, for which Leonard allegedly performed no promotional work.
While Leonard was required to pay $700,000, he avoided suspension and retained his contract. In contrast, the Clippers faced substantial repercussions: a $30 million fine, the forfeiture of five future first-round draft picks, and suspensions for key organizational figures, including owner Steve Ballmer.
Smith characterized the difference in consequences as "outrageous," arguing that Leonard contributed to significant issues for the franchise before facing minimal financial restitution, a sum that constitutes a small fraction of his earnings.
"He got his money and left the country," Smith added, referencing Leonard's trade to the Toronto Raptors. The deal, which had been delayed during the investigation, officially became effective on Monday. The Raptors acquired the two-time Finals MVP in exchange for Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, two unprotected first-round picks, a first-round swap, and two second-round selections.
Leonard's return to Toronto marks a homecoming to the franchise he led to its first championship in 2019. Los Angeles, meanwhile, must rebuild without its star player, significant draft capital, and several key front-office personnel.
"I mean, damn," Smith concluded. "How much better can it get than that?"