LA Clippers Fined $30M for Kawhi Leonard Violations

The LA Clippers have been fined a record $30 million by the NBA for violating salary cap rules related to star player Kawhi Leonard. The league's investigation revealed "repeated" misconduct, primarily concerning attempts to secure under-market, off-court opportunities.

The Clippers must also forfeit five first-round draft picks scheduled for 2029-33. Owner Steve Ballmer has been suspended for 12 months from all league and team activities.

Leonard has been fined $700,000 and acknowledged his responsibility, stating he signed an agreement in good faith and was unaware of any breach of NBA salary cap rules. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver described the Clippers' actions as "flagrant" and noted the intent behind the violations was aggressive and deceitful.

The franchise has rejected the findings, labeling the investigation as flawed and a "gross injustice," and they plan to appeal the decision. The Clippers will be monitored for compliance over the next five years.