The NBA’s investigation into the Los Angeles Clippers and Kawhi Leonard could extend into 2027 as the league continues examining whether the team circumvented the salary cap.
The probe centers on a reported $28 million endorsement deal between Leonard and Aspiration, a company that previously had a 23-year, $300 million partnership with the Clippers before going bankrupt.
According to ESPN, the case could continue into next year if the league and the Clippers fail to agree on the findings or any potential punishment.
During NBA Summer League, NBPA executive director David Kelly said he had not seen evidence suggesting the Clippers violated league rules, while another source cautioned against drawing conclusions from outside opinions or the length of the investigation.
If the NBA determines a violation occurred, possible penalties include fines, forfeited draft picks, voided contracts and suspensions for team personnel.
Commissioner Adam Silver recently said the investigation “needs to be wrapped up before the beginning of next season,” adding it has taken “longer than I would have hoped.”
The unresolved case has also delayed the reported trade that would send Leonard back to the Toronto Raptors because of concerns over any potential league discipline.
NBA’s investigation into Clippers-Kawhi Leonard dealings could continue into 2027 https://t.co/TYUzg7f5Ur pic.twitter.com/fw40aOMuhH
— New York Post (@nypost) July 30, 2026
