Kawhi Leonard Trade On Hold Amid NBA Investigation

Kawhi Leonard's trade to the Toronto Raptors will not be executed until the NBA's investigation into the Clippers is completed.

The Los Angeles Clippers' trade sending Kawhi Leonard to the Raptors was agreed upon on June 30.

The trade includes Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, a 2027 first-round pick swap, and unprotected first-round picks in 2031 and 2033.

Kawhi Leonard's endorsement deal with Aspiration, a company in which Clippers owner Steve Ballmer was an investor, is under scrutiny.

The NBA announced it was investigating the Clippers following the release of an episode of Pablo Torre's podcast, Pablo Torre Finds Out, in September 2025.

The Raptors will assume the risk of any potential penalties related to Leonard's contract stemming from the NBA's investigation into the Clippers.

Kawhi Leonard led the Raptors to the 2019 NBA title in his only season in Toronto.

The league announced in December 2019 that it was investigating the Clippers over allegations that Leonard's uncle and manager, Dennis Robertson, was seeking improper benefits during his free agency.

The investigation is ongoing, and the trade will not be finalized until it is completed.

Kawhi Leonard's first seven seasons in San Antonio included a Finals MVP, two Defensive Player of the Years, and two All-NBA selections.

The Spurs traded him to the Raptors in 2018 after the relationship between Leonard and the team soured.

Leonard then signed with the Clippers after the 2018-2019 season.

The NBA's investigation into the Clippers is expected to be completed soon, and the trade will be finalized if the Raptors assume the risk of any potential penalties.