NBA fines Los Angeles Clippers over salary cap circumvention for Kawhi Leonard

The NBA has penalized the Los Angeles Clippers following an investigation that found the organization circumvented league salary cap rules to secure Kawhi Leonard. The team faces a $30 million fine and the loss of five future first-round draft picks. Additionally, several executives, including Steve Ballmer, are subject to bans. Eddie Johnson, a former NBA Sixth Man of the Year, publicly questioned the approach taken by the team leadership, suggesting the methods employed contrasted with business practices at Microsoft. The sanctions follow a period of scrutiny regarding the team's financial dealings during the acquisition process. The league's ruling has prompted widespread discussion regarding the severity of the penalties and their potential long-term impact on the franchise's ability to remain competitive.

• 10:09 AMYahoo Sports — ‘Trying to cheat’ – Steve Ballmer’s unseriousness over LA Clippers exposed with a Microsoft example