Kawhi Leonard's Raptors Trade Paused Amid NBA Investigation

The Toronto Raptors and Los Angeles Clippers agreed in principle on June 30 to swap Kawhi Leonard for Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, two first‑round picks, a pick‑swap and two second‑round picks. The NBA, however, placed the deal on hold because of an ongoing league investigation into the Clippers' relationship with the now‑defunct fintech firm Aspiration.

The probe, launched in September 2025 after a podcast reported that Leonard received a $28 million “no‑show” endorsement from Aspiration, focuses on whether the Clippers used the partnership to circumvent salary‑cap rules. Owner Steve Ballmer had invested heavily in the company, and the league is examining whether the arrangement amounted to an impermissible off‑books payment to Leonard.

NBA officials told the Raptors that completing the trade now would require them to assume any penalties that might result from the investigation. The Raptors opted to wait for the investigation’s conclusion, reiterating their desire to bring Leonard back to Toronto. Both clubs have denied wrongdoing, and the investigation – conducted by the law firm Wachtell Lipton – has no set timetable. Potential penalties could include fines, loss of draft picks or a suspension for Leonard.