Raptors Halt Kawhi Leonard Trade for 5 Picks as NBA Probes Salary-Cap Allegations
Updated
Updated · CBS Sports · Jul 9
Raptors Halt Kawhi Leonard Trade for 5 Picks as NBA Probes Salary-Cap Allegations
3 articles · Updated · CBS Sports · Jul 9
Summary
Toronto and the Clippers said their June 30 deal for Kawhi Leonard will stay on hold until the NBA finishes its investigation, leaving Leonard in Los Angeles for now.
The Raptors said completing the trade now would force them to absorb any fallout from the probe, including the possibility that Leonard's contract could be voided.
The package would send Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, unprotected 2031 and 2033 first-round picks, a 2027 swap and two second-rounders to the Clippers if approved.
The investigation centers on allegations that Clippers owner Steve Ballmer used Leonard's Aspiration sponsorship to circumvent the salary cap; the Clippers have repeatedly denied wrongdoing.
Adam Silver said last month the independent probe was close to wrapping up, and Sportsnet reported the trade is still expected to proceed unless Leonard's contract is voided.