NBA investigation into Kawhi Leonard may stretch into 2027

The NBA's investigation into Kawhi Leonard and the Los Angeles Clippers could continue into 2027 if the league and involved parties fail to agree on its findings or any potential punishment.

ESPN reported the investigation is examining whether the Clippers breached the league's salary cap rules. The probe began in September 2025 and has now entered its 11th month.

The ongoing investigation has delayed a proposed trade that would send Leonard to the Toronto Raptors.

Although both teams have said they still intend to complete the deal, it cannot be finalised until the investigation concludes.

According to ESPN, the National Basketball Players Association could take the case to arbitration if the NBA imposes sanctions without what it considers sufficient evidence.

Leonard has denied any wrongdoing, while the Clippers have also rejected allegations that they broke league rules.

The team said it had been "fully" cooperative with the investigation by "participating in dozens of interviews, providing tens of thousands of documents, and facilitating access to our staff."

"At the heart of this investigation are Joe Sanberg and Aspiration. We did not funnel money to Kawhi Leonard through Aspiration. Like many sophisticated investors, financial institutions, and business partners, we were victims of a fraud initiated by Sanberg, who has been convicted and sentenced to 14 years in prison,” they added.