Kawhi Leonard investigation could linger until 2027, delaying Clippers-Raptors trade

Adam Silver expressed optimism earlier this month that the league would resolve the Kawhi Leonard investigation before the upcoming season, yet one outlet's report now indicates the process might extend to 2027 if the parties cannot agree on findings or a settlement. The probe, conducted independently by Wachtell Lipton, focuses on accusations that the Los Angeles Clippers used a business partner to pay Leonard covertly. The pending trade that would send Leonard back to the Toronto Raptors for Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick and several future draft assets has been stalled because the Raptors would inherit any sanctions, such as suspensions or contract voiding.

The NBA’s collective bargaining agreement allows penalties up to $7.5 million, loss of picks, contract voids, and personnel suspensions. Should the Clippers or the National Basketball Players Association dispute the league’s conclusions, the case would move to an arbitrator and possibly an appeals panel. The NBPA’s executive director David Kelly has said he has not seen evidence warranting punishment, while the Clippers, Leonard and owner Steve Ballmer continue to deny wrongdoing.