The end of the NBA’s investigation into the Los Angeles Clippers and Kawhi Leonard was supposed to clear the path. It hasn’t. According to ESPN and HoopsHype, the probe could now stretch well into 2027 if the two sides cannot agree on findings or proposed discipline.
The outside law firm hired by the league, Wachtell Lipton, finished its work after nearly 11 months. But completing the investigation and closing it are two different things. The NBA must now review the findings, determine whether discipline is warranted, and survive any legal challenge. If the Clippers contest a ruling, the matter goes to a neutral arbitrator jointly appointed by the league and the National Basketball Players Association. The NBPA has already signaled it would fight in arbitration rather than accept what it views as insufficient evidence.
A trade frozen in place
The real casualty is the Clippers-Raptors deal agreed on June 30. Toronto is acquiring Leonard in exchange for Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick and future picks – a blockbuster return for a franchise that lost the two-time Finals MVP six years ago. The deal cannot be finalized until the league lifts its hold. Both teams have been unable to build their rosters around it.
For the Raptors, the uncertainty is particularly sharp. They traded assets for a player they cannot officially add to the roster, cannot work out with coaches, and cannot count on for training camp. For Steve Ballmer’s Clippers, the situation is more complicated still – they are simultaneously under investigation and trying to operate a franchise.
What comes next
The NBA’s options span a wide range. Sanctions could include fines, draft pick forfeiture, contract voiding, or penalties on Leonard or ownership. Any measure beyond a fine typically triggers a formal CBA hearing. Sources told ESPN the league hoped to wrap matters before training camp. If arbitration begins, that timeline becomes unrealistic.
Leonard, entering the final year of his contract at $50.3 million, has denied any wrongdoing throughout. He has spent the better part of a year in a professional holding pattern. The Raptors have been patient. How much longer that patience holds is an open question.
