[REVISION HISTORY]

NBA Clippers sanctions and Kawhi Leonard Raptors return

Updated 40 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

What changed

2026-10-22 03:03 UTC → 2026-10-22 12:04 UTC · added ~~removed~~

The NBA investigation into the Los Angeles Clippers regarding salary cap circumvention resulted in historic disciplinary sanctions. The league determined the franchise facilitated improper off-court income for Kawhi Leonard through undisclosed endorsement deals. Sanctions include a $30 million fine, the forfeiture of five first-round picks (2029–2033), and a one-year suspension for owner Steve Ballmer. Additionally, President of Business Operations Gillian Zucker received a one-year suspension without pay, and President of Basketball Operations Lawrence Frank was suspended without pay for six months. Leonard was personally fined $700,000, and former business manager Dennis Robertson received a five-year ban from NBA business. The U.S. Department of Justice and the SEC have also opened probes. Following the investigation, Leonard was traded to the Toronto Raptors in exchange for Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, multiple draft picks, and a pick swap. Leonard, who previously led Toronto to a 2019 championship, has since committed his future to the team, signing a two-year, $115 million contract extension that includes a player option for the 2028-29 season. To facilitate the move and provide cap flexibility, Leonard reportedly accepted $11 million less than the maximum allowable extension and waived a $7.45 million trade bonus. In his regular-season home opener against the Chicago Bulls, Leonard recorded 23 points, six rebounds, and two assists in 24 minutes. The Raptors secured a 135-92 victory, supported by 23 points each from Scottie Barnes and Immanuel Quickley. Despite the win, head coach Darko Rajakovic indicated that Leonard would likely face minutes restrictions early in the season to manage his conditioning.

Versions

Only revisions since CLSTR began indexing content versions appear here. Select a version to see what changed compared to the one before it.