NBA says Kawhi Leonard investigation should conclude before next season

The NBA’s investigation into whether the Los Angeles Clippers helped forward Kawhi Leonard circumvent the salary cap through a sponsorship with the now-defunct carbon-credits firm Aspiration has been delayed and expanded, league officials said. The probe, which began ten months ago, is also examining other expenses the Clippers may have covered for Leonard and a possible second, undisclosed endorsement deal, according to sources speaking anonymously to The Athletic.

The league’s law firm, Wachtell Lipton, is reviewing the Aspiration arrangement and the additional matters. Images of a cancelled marketing campaign that would have linked Leonard to a Marvel-style character were obtained, showing the partnership had been prepared for public promotion before being abandoned.

NBA commissioner Adam Silver addressed the issue after the Board of Governors meeting in Las Vegas, stating, "I would say this can be wrapped up -- and needs to be wrapped up -- before next season."

Both the Clippers and the Toronto Raptors, which have paused the trade that would return Leonard to Toronto, said they will await the investigation’s outcome. The Clippers said they expect the trade to be finalized once the review is complete and noted they have "fully cooperated" by providing extensive documentation and staff access.