The Kawhi Leonard case continues to keep the NBA on the edge of its seat this summer. The investigation into the matter has not yet been concluded. However, the Clippers superstar apparently still expects that he will not face a suspension.
According to a report by Jake Fischer (The Stein Line), Kawhi Leonard currently remains “highly” confident that his trade to Toronto—which is currently on hold—will go through once the investigation is complete. The Raptors also believe that Leonard will report for the start of training camp on September 28.
Last week’s report—which stated that Leonard had negotiated a second, unauthorized endorsement deal with the company “Daktronics”—is unlikely to change this. This may also be related to the fact that the NBA’s collective bargaining agreement does not provide for a suspension in such cases. We’ve previously outlined here the disciplinary tools available to the commissioner.
For their part, the Clippers are reportedly eager to pursue arbitration—depending on the outcome of the investigation and the determination of specific sanctions—in order to resolve the situation with the league out of court.
There is also an update regarding the duration of the investigation. According to Fischer, there is a growing consensus that it will be concluded soon. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver had already announced on the sidelines of the Summer League that he expected the matter to be finalized this summer—presumably by the end of August at the latest. Fischer’s sources indicate that the entire process will be concluded within the next six weeks.