The NBA is challenging the assertions presented in an ESPN report regarding the investigation into Los Angeles Clippers’ owner Steve Ballmer. According to ESPN’s article released on Monday, three sources indicated that the NBA did not uncover any evidence suggesting Ballmer used team sponsors to compensate Kawhi Leonard in a way that bypasses salary cap regulations.
Instead, the article implied that the NBA is looking into whether the team’s presentation of Leonard to sponsors breaches the league’s regulations on avoiding salary cap violations. NBA spokesperson Mike Bass refuted the ESPN report in a statement issued on Monday, mentioning that it contains numerous inaccuracies. Bass stated that the findings of the NBA’s inquiry will be disclosed upon its conclusion.
A potential trade involving Leonard between the Los Angeles Clippers and the Toronto Raptors has been halted pending the league’s decision on potential penalties.