The NBA challenges assertions made in a recent ESPN report regarding its inquiry into Los Angeles Clippers owner Steve Ballmer. According to ESPN’s article released on Monday, three sources claimed the NBA did not uncover any proof that Ballmer used team sponsors to compensate Kawhi Leonard covertly and bypass the salary cap. Instead, the article suggested the NBA is examining whether the Clippers’ introduction of Leonard to team sponsors breaches the league’s regulations on evading the salary cap.
NBA spokesperson Mike Bass refuted the ESPN article on Monday, stating it contains numerous inaccuracies. Bass mentioned that the outcomes of the NBA’s investigation will be disclosed upon its conclusion. As a result of potential league sanctions, a trade deal between the Clippers and the Toronto Raptors regarding Leonard has been postponed.