NBA penalizes Los Angeles Clippers for salary cap circumvention violations

The NBA released the results of an investigation into the Los Angeles Clippers regarding salary cap circumvention on September 2, 2026. The league sanctioned the team, forcing the forfeiture of five first-round draft picks and the payment of a $30 million fine. Kawhi Leonard, the primary player involved, received a $700,000 fine. Team owner Steve Ballmer and president of business operations Gillian Zucker were suspended for one year, while president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank received a six-month suspension. The investigation, conducted by Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz, included 73 interviews and a review of 200,000 documents. The report stated that the Clippers attempted to delay the investigation and operate in an obfuscatory manner. Investigators noted that they continue to receive relevant information and may supplement their findings in the future.

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