Kawhi Leonard investigation reaches critical stage as NBA trade hangs in balance

The fact-finding portion of the NBA’s investigation into Kawhi Leonard and the Clippers may finally be complete, but that does not mean his proposed return to the Raptors is ready to move forward.Appearing on “The Rich Eisen Show,” The Athletic’s Mike Vorkunov said the outside law firm hired by the NBA appears to have finished its work.The league must now review the findings and determine whether Leonard, the Clippers or owner Steve Ballmer should face discipline.“The investigation, I think, is over now,” Vorkunov said.

“The NBA is kind of like sifting through what the law firm they hired has found, deciding whether there’s a punishment or not that they then want to levy.”The probe centers on allegations that Leonard’s endorsement agreement with Aspiration, a now-bankrupt company connected financially to Ballmer, may have been used to circumvent the NBA’s salary cap.Leonard reportedly agreed to a four-year, $28 million endorsement deal that also included company equity, though he did not participate in traditional promotional campaigns for the company.The Clippers have denied wrongdoing and maintained that they were victims of fraud involving Aspiration rather than participants in an effort to provide Leonard with additional compensation.Even with the investigative stage reportedly complete, the process could remain unresolved for some time.Vorkunov explained that any proposed punishment may need to be presented to an assistant arbitrator under the collective bargaining agreement.

The National Basketball Players Association would also become involved if the league seeks to discipline Leonard, and either side could appeal the ruling.That uncertainty continues to hold up the proposed trade sending Leonard to Toronto in a package involving Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick and future draft compensation.Vorkunov still expects the deal to be completed unless the NBA imposes the most extreme possible penalty and voids Leonard’s contract.“I think the ...