NBA penalizes Los Angeles Clippers for cap circumvention regarding Kawhi Leonard

The NBA issued penalties to the Los Angeles Clippers following an investigation into salary cap circumvention involving Kawhi Leonard. The league stripped the organization of five first-round draft picks spanning 2029 through 2033. Owner Steve Ballmer received a one-year suspension from team activities and a $30 million fine. President of business operations Gillian Zucker was suspended for one year without pay, while president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank received a six-month suspension without pay. The investigation centered on an impermissible endorsement arrangement between Leonard and Aspiration, a company tied to a sponsorship deal with the franchise. Reports indicated Leonard received $28 million over four years for the partnership without performing required services.

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