NBA Commissioner Adam Silver provided an update on the league's investigation into the Los Angeles Clippers' handling of Kawhi Leonard's contract, confirming that the probe has expanded in scope. Speaking at a press conference on July 14, 2026, Silver stated that the investigation now includes a broader review of the team's practices beyond the initial allegations of salary cap circumvention through a sponsorship deal.
The investigation was launched after reports emerged that the Clippers may have violated league rules by using a no-show sponsorship arrangement to compensate Leonard, effectively bypassing the salary cap. The trade that would send Leonard back to the Toronto Raptors remains on hold pending the outcome of the investigation.
Silver declined to provide a specific timeline for the investigation's conclusion but emphasized that the league is committed to a thorough review. 'We are looking at all relevant information to ensure compliance with our rules,' Silver said. The Clippers have cooperated with the investigation, according to league sources.
The potential penalties for the Clippers could include fines, loss of draft picks, or even voiding of contracts, though no decisions have been made. The NBA has not set a deadline for the investigation's completion.
