The trade between the Los Angeles Clippers and the Toronto Raptors involving Kawhi Leonard is suddenly in jeopardy. As both franchises announced on Thursday evening (German time), they intend to wait for the results of the investigation into the superstar. The league had previously issued a warning to that effect.
Just under a week after news of the trade leaked to the public, it is suddenly completely unclear whether it will actually go through!
The Raptors stated that the NBA office had informed them of the possibility that they could bear the brunt of the consequences should the investigation into Leonard result in sanctions. According to media reports, the possibilities include a temporary suspension for the player or the termination of his contract.
This comes amid serious allegations against Leonard and the Los Angeles Clippers. According to an investigation by investigative journalist Pablo Torre, the franchise has been paying its superstar above the salary cap for years in order to enjoy greater financial flexibility. This was reportedly carried out through a third-party company with close ties to franchise owner Steve Ballmer.
Raptors Could Stick with Kawhi Trade
After the allegations came to light last fall, the NBA commissioned an independent law firm to investigate. In early June, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver finally hinted at a press conference that the results would be available soon and that the matter could be brought to a close.
The fact that the Raptors are now stepping back from the trade—which had already been fully negotiated—for the time being could indicate that far-reaching sanctions are indeed to be expected. Nevertheless, the Canadian team stated that it remains “committed to bringing Kawhi back to Toronto” and hopes “for a swift resolution for our players, our organization, and our fans.”
The Clippers played the innocent party that evening, once again denying any wrongdoing and pointing out the hardships they have endured as a result of the investigation: “Over the past ten months, we have cooperated fully, undergone various interviews, and shared tens of thousands of documents. Although this process has been very challenging, we remain committed to transparency.”
