The NBA is challenging assertions presented in an ESPN report regarding the league’s inquiry into Los Angeles Clippers owner Steve Ballmer. According to ESPN’s publication on Monday morning, three sources indicated that the NBA did not uncover any proof suggesting Ballmer used team sponsors to compensate Kawhi Leonard in a way that evades the salary cap.
The report claimed that instead of focusing on direct financial transactions, the NBA is examining whether the Clippers’ showcasing of Leonard to team sponsors breaches rules against circumventing the salary cap. NBA representative Mike Bass contradicted the ESPN article in a statement released on Monday afternoon, emphasizing that it contains numerous inaccuracies.
Bass further mentioned that the outcome of the NBA’s investigation will be disclosed upon its conclusion. A trade involving Leonard between the Clippers and the Toronto Raptors has been paused pending the league’s decision on potential penalties.