NBA's Kawhi Leonard investigation reportedly might not resolve until 2027
NBA commissioner Adam Silver said earlier this month that he was "hopeful" the league will reach a resolution with its Kawhi Leonard investigation by the end of the summer and in time for the new season. A new ESPN report has presented another possible timeline.
The saga could reportedly extend into 2027 if the involved parties don't agree on the findings of the investigation, conducted independently of the league office by law firm Wachtell Lipton, or to a settlement that involves punishing the Los Angeles Clippers.
Having to wait until next year for a firm answer would likely throw a wrench in the Clippers' proposed trade to send Leonard back to the Toronto Raptors in exchange for Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, unprotected first-round draft picks in 2031 and 2033, a 2027 first-round pick swap and two second-round picks.
The deal was reported on June 30 and announced as on hold on July 9. It was paused after the league office communicated the Raptors would be taking on any risk for penalties against Leonard, such as a suspension or the voiding of his contract.
The teams have said they intend to complete the trade, but it's unclear what exactly they need to see before pulling the trigger.
The investigation has been ongoing since last September, shortly after the "Pablo Torre Finds Out" unearthed the allegations that the Clippers paid Leonard under the table through business partner Aspiration in a Pulitzer Prize winning report. Under the NBA's current collective bargaining agreement, penalties for salary cap circumvention can include a team fine of up to $7.5 million, forfeiture of draft picks, the voiding of player contracts and suspensions of up to a year for team personnel.
The completion of the investigation might only the first part of the process. If the Clippers or National Basketball Players Association, representing Leonard, object to the league's findings or proposed punishments, the matter would go to an arbitrator jointly appointed by the league and union. And that arbitrator's ruling would also be subject to a three-person appeals panel, also appointed by the league and union, that would issue a binding decision.
The best way to avoid that process would be a settlement, but ESPN reports the union wouldn't hesitate to invoke arbitration if it believes the NBA's punishment isn't backed by sufficient evidence.
The Clippers, Leonard and team owner Steve Ballmer have repeatedly denied all claims of wrongdoing on their part. When asked about the investigation in Las Vegas earlier this month, NBPA executive director David Kelly told reporters that he didn't believe Wachtell Lipton had uncovered anything worthy of punishment, saying "Not from anything I've seen," per ESPN.
The matter involves a league, a union, the most wealthy owner in the NBA, an All-NBA player, a convicted fraudster and much more. This was always bound to be complicated.
