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● TRACKER Updated 10d ago · 34 sources tracked

Mavericks, Clippers Have Explored Kawhi Leonard Trade

The Los Angeles Clippers and Dallas Mavericks previously explored a trade involving Kawhi Leonard after the Clippers refused to grant the forward his desired contract extension. The breakdown in contract talks initiated the trade discussions that ultimately ended Leonard's tenure in Los Angeles. This development unfolds alongside NBA Commissioner Adam Silver confirming that the league expects to decide on expansion to Las Vegas and Seattle before the end of 2026, with new franchises projected to debut in the 2028-29 season.

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⚡ Key Developments & Real-Time Context
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  • ✓ The Los Angeles Clippers refused to give Kawhi Leonard his desired contract extension.
  • ✓ NBA Commissioner Adam Silver confirms a decision on league expansion to Las Vegas and Seattle is expected by the end of 2026.
  • ✓ New expansion teams would debut in the 2028-29 season.
🛡️ Source Corroboration: 34 independent reporting domains (90% confidence) ⏱ Read time: ~2 min

What changed

A new report identifies the refusal by the Clippers to grant Kawhi Leonard a contract extension as the catalyst that sparked trade talks.

Live updates

  1. Clippers and Mavericks Explored Trade After Kawhi Leonard Contract Dispute

    The Los Angeles Clippers and Dallas Mavericks previously explored a trade involving Kawhi Leonard after the Clippers refused to grant the forward his desired contract extension. The breakdown in contract talks initiated the trade discussions that ultimately ended Leonard's tenure in Los Angeles. This development unfolds alongside NBA Commissioner Adam Silver confirming that the league expects to decide on expansion to Las Vegas and Seattle before the end of 2026, with new franchises projected to debut in the 2028-29 season.

    Why it matters

    The trade discussions follow an NBA investigation that revealed the Clippers used covert endorsement deals and improper benefits to bypass salary cap rules. Although the league punished the franchise, the NBA eventually authorized a trade returning Leonard to the Toronto Raptors for the current season while the Clippers pivot toward a roster reset for the 2026-27 campaign.

    What is confirmed

    • The Los Angeles Clippers refused to give Kawhi Leonard his desired contract extension.
    • NBA Commissioner Adam Silver confirms a decision on league expansion to Las Vegas and Seattle is expected by the end of 2026.
    • New expansion teams would debut in the 2028-29 season.

    Still unconfirmed

    • The Mavericks and Clippers actively explored a trade involving Kawhi Leonard.

    What to watch next

    • Official announcements regarding NBA expansion decisions for Las Vegas and Seattle by the end of 2026.
    • Further roster reset actions by the Los Angeles Clippers ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.
    Sources used for this update (2)
    1. www.latestly.com — NBA Expansion: Las Vegas Decision Likely Before Seattle by Year-End
    2. sports.yahoo.com — Clippers Reportedly Refused to Give Kawhi Leonard His Desired Contract Extension
    confidence 90%
  2. Kawhi Leonard returns to Raptors as Clippers reset roster

    Kawhi Leonard has rejoined the Toronto Raptors after the NBA authorized a June trade previously frozen due to an investigation. The league found the Los Angeles Clippers used covert endorsement deals and improper benefits to circumvent salary cap regulations. While the NBA has issued a punishment, the trade is now cleared. This move allows Leonard to play for Toronto this season while the Clippers initiate a roster reset for the 2026-27 campaign.

    Why it matters

    The NBA's decision to freeze the trade highlights the league's strict enforcement of salary cap rules. This transition shifts Leonard back to his former team and forces the Clippers into a rebuilding phase.

    What to watch next

    • Details of the NBA punishment issued to the Clippers
    • Official confirmation of the Clippers' 2026-27 roster strategy
    Sources used for this update (4)
    1. sports.yahoo.com — Mock Trade Sends Clippers' Darius Garland to Kings for $215 Million Guard
    2. sports.yahoo.com — Jarred Vanderbilt Put On Blast As Lakers Trade Rumors Are Confirmed
    3. www.sportingnews.com — Saddiq Bey cashes In after proving doubters wrong following ACL injury
    4. www.rotowire.com — Fantasy Basketball News: Latest NBA team, player and league updates
    confidence 100%
  3. Kawhi Leonard Returns to Toronto Following Clippers Investigation

    Kawhi Leonard has returned to the Toronto Raptors after the NBA cleared a June trade agreement with the Los Angeles Clippers. The league previously froze the transaction to investigate claims that the Clippers used improper benefits and covert endorsement deals to bypass salary cap rules. The NBA has since issued a punishment and authorized the trade, allowing Leonard to join the Raptors for the new season while the Clippers begin a reset for the 2026-27 campaign.

    Why it matters

    The trade was delayed by a regulatory probe into cap circumvention. This investigation left Leonard in professional limbo until the league concluded its inquiry and penalized the Clippers.

    What is confirmed

    • Kawhi Leonard returned to the Toronto Raptors in a trade with the Los Angeles Clippers.
    • The NBA investigated the Los Angeles Clippers for using improper benefits and covert endorsement deals to circumvent the salary cap.
    • The league froze a June trade agreement during its investigation into the Clippers and Leonard.
    • The NBA has cleared the transaction and issued a punishment to the Clippers.

    What to watch next

    • The impact of Leonard on the Raptors defense during the new season
    • The Clippers' roster moves as they reset for 2026-27
    Sources used for this update (5)
    1. www.nba.com — 4 takeaways: Kawhi Leonard returns to Toronto in trade with Clippers
    2. sports.yahoo.com — ‘This Is Wild,’ ‘Luka (Dončić) Fans Knew’ — Basketball World Reacts As Ex-Mavericks Assistant Dubs Jason Kidd ‘The Worst Guy in the NBA’
    3. sports.yahoo.com — The two teams that wanted Kawhi Leonard amid Clippers scandal before Raptors trade
    4. sports.yahoo.com — Should Houston Trade Kevin Durant to the New York Knicks?
    5. www.aol.com — NBA offseason grades for every West team: How did OKC Thunder fare?
    confidence 100%
  4. Kawhi Leonard Trade to Toronto Raptors Completed

    Kawhi Leonard is returning to the Toronto Raptors after the NBA concluded its investigation into the Los Angeles Clippers. The league had previously frozen a June trade agreement to examine allegations that the Clippers used covert endorsement deals and improper benefits to circumvent the salary cap. Following the issuance of league punishment, the NBA has cleared the transaction, ending the professional limbo Leonard faced during the regulatory probe.

    Why it matters

    The trade was stalled for months while investigators scrutinized the Clippers' financial dealings. This case focused on whether the team bypassed cap rules to retain Leonard through off-the-books incentives.

    What is confirmed

    • Kawhi Leonard is heading back to the Toronto Raptors.
    • The NBA investigated the Los Angeles Clippers for salary cap circumvention.

    Still unconfirmed

    • The Los Angeles Lakers are linked to trade rumors involving Clippers star Derrick Jones Jr.
    • Darius Garland is a potential trade candidate for the Clippers.

    What to watch next

    • Details of the NBA punishment issued to the Clippers
    • Official contract terms for Leonard in Toronto
    Sources used for this update (6)
    1. nypost.com — Where the Clippers-Raptors, Kawhi Leonard trade stands amidst federal investigation
    2. sports.yahoo.com — Lakers’ Hopes Take a Blow in Pursuit of $30M Rival Star After Insider’s Confirmation
    3. sports.yahoo.com — Lakers Could Have A Sneaky Way To Land Derrick Jones Jr.
    4. sports.yahoo.com — Is Darius Garland a Realistic Trade Candidate for Clippers?
    5. sports.yahoo.com — Lakers Get Major Trade Opportunity as $30M Top PF Target Hits Open Market
    6. www.nytimes.com — Clippers, Raptors complete Kawhi Leonard trade after NBA doles out punishment
    confidence 100%
  5. NBA Investigation Halts Kawhi Leonard Trade to Toronto Raptors

    An NBA investigation into the Los Angeles Clippers has stopped a June trade that sent Kawhi Leonard to the Toronto Raptors. The league is examining allegations of salary cap circumvention, specifically focusing on improper benefits and covert off-the-books endorsement deals involving the Clippers and Leonard. While the deal was previously reached, it remains incomplete as the investigation continues. This regulatory freeze keeps Leonard in a state of professional limbo while the Clippers manage the fallout of the salary cap probe.

    Why it matters

    The Clippers have faced ongoing instability due to these financial allegations. Previous reports indicated the Dallas Mavericks and Los Angeles Lakers also explored trades for Leonard. The Raptors recently added an NBA champion to their roster during this period of uncertainty.

    Still unconfirmed

    • The Los Angeles Clippers traded Kawhi Leonard to the Toronto Raptors in June.
    • The NBA is investigating the Clippers and Kawhi Leonard for covert off-the-books endorsement deals and improper benefits.

    What to watch next

    • NBA ruling on the legality of the Leonard-Raptors trade
    • Official results of the Clippers salary cap circumvention investigation
    Sources used for this update (6)
    1. www.sportingnews.com — Bold predictions for every team in the West: Spurs make a big trade, Bronny breaks out
    2. sports.yahoo.com — The NBA's most interesting rising sophomores: What's next for Dylan Harper, Ace Bailey and others in 2026-27?
    3. sports.yahoo.com — Kawhi Leonard Gives Hopeful 3-Word Answer on Raptors Trade After NBA’s Explosive Clippers Investigation
    4. sports.yahoo.com — Danilo Gallinari Explains Why He’s The Biggest “What-If” In NBA History
    5. www.cbssports.com — Clippers spark new controversy by giving Chris Paul's No. 3 jersey number to Bradley Beal
    6. sports.yahoo.com — Kyrie Irving Could Be Missing Piece For Giannis Antetokounmpo In Miami
    confidence 70%
  6. Kawhi Leonard Trade Remains Pending Amid Clippers Fallout

    The trade involving Kawhi Leonard has not been formally completed as training camps approach, keeping the Toronto Raptors and other interested franchises in a holding pattern. While the Los Angeles Clippers manage ongoing instability stemming from a major salary cap scandal, the franchise faces the pending departure of Leonard. Rival teams, including the Dallas Mavericks and Los Angeles Lakers, have previously explored moves for Leonard, though experts have questioned the viability of a Toronto deal. Meanwhile, the Raptors have added a recently crowned NBA champion to their roster.

    Why it matters

    The Los Angeles Clippers are navigating intense front office turmoil following severe league penalties. Owner Steve Ballmer received a one-year suspension, the organization lost five first-round picks, and the team incurred a $30 million fine due to the salary cap violations. This severe punishment created the internal instability that prompted rival teams to pursue trade talks for Leonard.

    What is confirmed

    • The Kawhi Leonard trade remains among the transactions that have yet to be formally completed ahead of training camps.
    • The Toronto Raptors signed a recently crowned NBA champion while waiting for the Clippers-Kawhi Leonard trade.

    Still unconfirmed

    • Experts have questioned the potential trade of Kawhi Leonard to the Toronto Raptors.

    What to watch next

    • Official finalization of the Kawhi Leonard trade before training camps begin.
    • Further roster moves by the Toronto Raptors following their recent signing.
    • Additional front office adjustments by the Los Angeles Clippers.
    Sources used for this update (5)
    1. www.ibtimes.com.au — Former NBA Player Terrence Ross Says Kyrie Irving 'Definitely' More Talented Than Stephen Curry In New Debate
    2. www.sportingnews.com — Raptors reportedly sign ex-Lakers NBA champion while waiting for Clippers-Kawhi Leonard trade
    3. www.sportingnews.com — Pistons predicted to trade Jalen Duren for $272M 3-time All-Star, rebounding savant in mega deal
    4. www.hoopsrumors.com — Significant Transactions That Have Yet To Be Finalized
    5. www.hoopsrumors.com — Clippers Notes: Strus, Next Steps, Cap Flexibility, More
    confidence 95%
  7. Mavericks, Clippers Explore Kawhi Leonard Trade Amid Scandal

    The Los Angeles Clippers are dealing with the fallout of a salary cap scandal centered around Kawhi Leonard, with rivals like the Dallas Mavericks exploring potential trades. The Clippers have been fined $30 million, lost five first-round picks, and had owner Steve Ballmer suspended for a year. The team's instability has sparked interest from other teams. Kawhi Leonard's potential trade to the Toronto Raptors has been questioned by experts. The Los Angeles Lakers have also previously explored trades with the Clippers.

    Why it matters

    The Los Angeles Clippers are facing intense scrutiny and instability due to a salary cap scandal. The team's struggles have created opportunities for rival teams to exploit the situation. The scandal has raised questions about Kawhi Leonard's involvement and the validity of his potential trades. The Clippers' punishment has been debated by experts and analysts.

    What is confirmed

    • The LA Clippers were fined $30 million and stripped of five first-round picks.
    • Owner Steve Ballmer was suspended for a year.
    • The Dallas Mavericks and Los Angeles Lakers have explored trades with the Clippers.

    Still unconfirmed

    • The Mavericks are exploring a trade for Kawhi Leonard
    • The Clippers' decision-making process has been questioned by NBA legend Chris Paul

    What to watch next

    • The outcome of the Spurs' $197 million proposal
    • Kawhi Leonard's response to the trade rumors
    • The Los Angeles Clippers' roster moves in the coming weeks
    Sources used for this update (5)
    1. www.hoopsrumors.com — Southeast Notes: Simmons, Hornets’ Outlook, Suggs, Magic Broadcasts
    2. www.hoopsrumors.com — Eastern Notes: Knicks Extension Candidates, Brink, Pacers Roster, Bucks Minicamp
    3. www.yardbarker.com — Spurs Get $197M Proposal to Help Victor Wembanyama in the Clippers’ Punishment Fallout
    4. www.sportingnews.com — NBA legend Chris Paul sounds off on Clippers for 'disrespectful' shocking decision last season
    5. www.sportingnews.com — Lakers predicted to sign $83M elite rim runner with major connection to Luka Doncic, JJ Redick
    confidence 85%
  8. Kawhi Leonard Scandal Shakes Clippers

    The Los Angeles Clippers face intense scrutiny following a salary cap scandal centered around Kawhi Leonard. Experts debate whether Leonard's punishment was too light and question the validity of his potential trade to the Toronto Raptors. Meanwhile, rivals look to exploit the organization's instability. The Los Angeles Lakers and Dallas Mavericks have previously explored trades, while media analysts clash over whether Leonard had prior knowledge of the violations. Analysts and insiders continue to question the fallout as the team struggles to recover from the sanctions.

    Why it matters

    The franchise absorbed heavy penalties after the NBA finalized punishments for a salary cap circumvention scheme, losing draft picks and paying a large fine. These roster restrictions opened the door for rival teams to test the front office's resolve. The ongoing saga draws heavy scrutiny across sports media regarding league discipline and player awareness.

    What is confirmed

    • The Los Angeles Clippers are managing fallout from the Kawhi Leonard scandal.

    Still unconfirmed

    • Kawhi Leonard had no idea about the salary cap circumvention scheme.
    • A trade sending Kawhi Leonard to the Toronto Raptors will go through.

    What to watch next

    • Confirmation of whether the Kawhi Leonard trade to Toronto is finalized.
    • Official statements regarding player knowledge of the salary cap violations.
    Sources used for this update (7)
    1. www.cbssports.com — College football picks for Week 1; how Clippers can rebound from Kawhi Leonard saga
    2. www.nytimes.com — Why not punish Kawhi Leonard more? Why no arbitration? Answering key Clippers questions
    3. sports.yahoo.com — Warriors Get Blockbuster Trade Proposal Involving $190 Million Star
    4. heavy.com — Warriors Trade Pitch Lands 21-PPG Wing to Help Stephen Curry Amid Extension Wait
    5. www.hoopsrumors.com — Hornets Sign Kobe Stewart, Waive Jarkel Joiner
    6. sports.yahoo.com — Spurs Swap De’Aaron Fox For $112M Star 3-And-D Wing In Blockbuster Trade Idea
    7. www.sportingnews.com — Lakers insider takes shot at ESPN's Shams Charania for protecting Clippers' Kawhi Leonard
    confidence 80%
  9. Clippers Prioritize Raptors Asset Following NBA Penalties

    The Los Angeles Clippers are focusing on delivering a 375 million dollar priority asset to the Toronto Raptors after the NBA finalized punishments for a salary cap circumvention scheme. The organization faces a depleted future after losing five first-round draft picks and paying a 30 million dollar fine. Other NBA teams are now attempting to leverage the Clippers' instability, with the Los Angeles Lakers considering a trade for Derrick Jones Jr. and the New York Knicks potentially targeting a young center in exchange for future picks.

    Why it matters

    Commissioner Adam Silver issued these penalties as a warning to wealthy owners. The Clippers have failed to win a playoff series in five years despite maintaining the league's longest active streak of winning seasons. A previously frozen trade involving Kawhi Leonard remains a central point of the organization's roster transition.

    Still unconfirmed

    • The Los Angeles Lakers are considering a trade pitch for Derrick Jones Jr.
    • The New York Knicks may offer future draft picks to acquire a young center from the Clippers.
    • The Clippers have a 375 million dollar priority for the Raptors.

    What to watch next

    • Confirmation of the specific asset being sent to Toronto.
    • Official trade filings between the Clippers and Lakers or Knicks.
    Sources used for this update (6)
    1. www.sportingnews.com — Lakers trade pitch sends multiple assets to Clippers for $30M wing after Kawhi Leonard news
    2. www.hoopsrumors.com — Bucks Sign John Butler To Non-Guaranteed Deal
    3. heavy.com — Knicks Urged To Explore Intriguing Opportunity To Add Young Big Man
    4. www.hoopsrumors.com — Timberwolves Sign Jonathan Kuminga To Two-Year Deal
    5. sports.yahoo.com — Warriors Predicted to Reunite With Kevin Durant in 4-Team Blockbuster Trade
    6. www.sportingnews.com — Clippers reportedly have $375M 'priority' for Raptors after investigation ends in harsh punishment
    confidence 70%
  10. Clippers Face Cap Scheme Allegations Amid Kawhi Leonard Trade Freeze

    The NBA has fined Clippers owner Steve Ballmer $30 million and removed five first-round draft picks following an investigation into Kawhi Leonard. A trade sending Leonard to the Toronto Raptors is frozen pending the outcome of these probes. Reports now indicate the Clippers operated a salary cap circumvention scheme without Leonard's knowledge. The organization struggles to transition its roster after five years without a playoff series victory, despite the longest active streak of winning seasons in the league. Commissioner Adam Silver intends for the penalty to serve as a warning to wealthy owners.

    Why it matters

    The league is investigating how the Clippers managed Leonard's contract and team finances. This case tests the NBA's ability to regulate billionaire owners and enforce cap rules. The resolution will determine if the Raptors trade ever closes.

    What is confirmed

    • The NBA fined Clippers owner Steve Ballmer $30 million.
    • The Clippers lost five first-round draft picks.
    • A trade to send Kawhi Leonard to the Toronto Raptors is frozen.

    Still unconfirmed

    • Steve Ballmer has been affected by the Leonard situation.

    What to watch next

    • The NBA's decision to unfreeze or cancel the Toronto Raptors trade
    • Official confirmation of the cap circumvention scheme details
    Sources used for this update (5)
    1. www.theguardian.com — Will the Clippers’ $30m fine tame the NBA’s billionaire class? We’re about to find out
    2. sports.yahoo.com — Warriors Could Get New $193 Million Trade Target After Kawhi Leonard News
    3. sports.yahoo.com — Lakers predicted to trade Jaden Hardy for Clippers $48M elite 3-and-D wing to pair with Luka Doncic
    4. www.newsweek.com — Clippers Masterminded Cap Scheme Behind Kawhi Leonard’s Back: Report
    5. www.sportingnews.com — Clippers owner Steve Ballmer reveals what he really feels about Kawhi Leonard's punishment
    confidence 80%
  11. NBA Penalizes Clippers as Kawhi Leonard Trade to Raptors Freezes

    The NBA has fined Clippers owner Steve Ballmer $30 million and stripped the team of five first-round draft picks following a probe into Kawhi Leonard. An agreed-upon trade to send Leonard to the Toronto Raptors is currently frozen while investigations continue. While the deal is expected to eventually proceed, the Clippers now face a roster transition after failing to win a playoff series in five years despite maintaining the league's longest active streak of winning seasons.

    Why it matters

    The Clippers are shifting away from a championship window that has seen repeated postseason failures. This investigation disrupts a planned return for Leonard to Toronto and severely depletes the Clippers' future assets.

    What is confirmed

    • The NBA stripped the Clippers of five first-round picks and fined Steve Ballmer $30 million.
    • The Clippers have not won a playoff series in five years.
    • A trade to send Kawhi Leonard to the Toronto Raptors is currently on hold due to NBA investigations.

    Still unconfirmed

    • Stephen Jackson claims Kawhi Leonard owns a house in Toronto and will return to the Raptors.
    • The Los Angeles Lakers may trade for Clippers wing Derrick Jones Jr.

    What to watch next

    • Completion or cancellation of the frozen trade to the Toronto Raptors
    • Outcome of any appeals regarding the NBA's draft pick penalties
    Sources used for this update (8)
    1. sports.yahoo.com — Spurs Proposed to Trade De’Aaron Fox to Raptors in Blockbuster 5-Team Deal
    2. sports.yahoo.com — Kawhi Leonard’s Next Move Revealed As NBA Investigation Keeps Trade On Hold
    3. sports.yahoo.com — Clippers Get Surprising Kawhi Leonard Trade Update From ESPN Insider
    4. www.nytimes.com — The Clippers know they aren’t contenders. So what exactly are they building?
    5. www.cbssports.com — What's next after NBA's Clippers punishment? Five lingering questions about Kawhi Leonard trade, appeals, more
    6. heavy.com — Lakers Predicted to Trade for Clippers Wing Amid Kawhi Leonard Drama
    7. sports.yahoo.com — Kawhi Leonard Escapes Clippers Disaster With Blockbuster Raptors Return
    8. www.usatoday.com — NBA strips Clippers of five first-round picks, fines Steve Ballmer $30M in Kawhi Leonard probe
    confidence 90%
  12. Mavericks, Clippers Explore Kawhi Leonard Trade

    The Los Angeles Clippers and Dallas Mavericks have discussed a potential trade involving Kawhi Leonard. This development comes after Klay Thompson agreed to a two-year, $13 million contract with the Miami Heat, which included a player option for the second year. Thompson's move followed a buyout with the Mavericks, where he returned $9.8 million.

    Why it matters

    The NBA is investigating the Clippers and Toronto Raptors regarding a paused Kawhi Leonard trade. The Mavericks are exploring roster adjustments after Thompson's departure. Leonard's potential trade could impact the Western Conference lineup.

    What is confirmed

    • Klay Thompson is expected to sign a two-year, $13 million contract with the Miami Heat.
    • Thompson reached this agreement after clearing waivers following a buyout with the Dallas Mavericks.
    • As part of that buyout deal, Thompson returned $9.8 million to the Mavericks.

    Still unconfirmed

    • The Mavericks and Clippers have discussed a potential trade involving Kawhi Leonard.

    What to watch next

    • The NBA investigation into the Clippers and Toronto Raptors
    • Kawhi Leonard's response to trade rumors
    • The Mavericks' next roster move
    Sources used for this update (6)
    1. www.sandiegouniontribune.com — San Diego Union-Tribune
    2. www.hoopsrumors.com — Milwaukee Bucks Rumors | Hoops Rumors
    3. www.hoopsrumors.com — Los Angeles Lakers Rumors | Hoops Rumors
    4. abcnews.com — Political News
    5. sports.yahoo.com — 4 NBA stars who could be traded during 2026-2027 season
    6. sports.yahoo.com — Darius Garland Speaks on Being a Veteran for Clippers' Young Players
    confidence 60%
  13. Klay Thompson joins Heat after Mavericks buyout

    Klay Thompson is expected to sign a two-year, $13 million contract with the Miami Heat, including a player option for the second year. Thompson reached this agreement after clearing waivers following a buyout with the Dallas Mavericks. As part of that buyout deal, Thompson returned $9.8 million to the Mavericks. This move follows previous reports that Dallas was exploring roster adjustments while the Los Angeles Clippers and Toronto Raptors dealt with an NBA investigation regarding a paused Kawhi Leonard trade.

    Why it matters

    The Mavericks signed Thompson before the 2024-25 season to bolster their roster. His departure creates a vacancy in Dallas as the team continues to evaluate its composition. Meanwhile, the NBA investigation into salary cap circumvention continues to block a trade between the Clippers and Raptors.

    What is confirmed

    • Klay Thompson is expected to sign a two-year, $13 million deal with the Heat that includes a player option for the second season.
    • Thompson cleared waivers after a buyout with the Dallas Mavericks.

    Still unconfirmed

    • Klay Thompson gave back $9.8 million in his buyout agreement with the Dallas Mavericks.

    What to watch next

    • Official confirmation of the Thompson contract signing
    • Updates on the NBA investigation into the Clippers and Raptors trade
    Sources used for this update (4)
    1. www.nbcsports.com — Shams: Klay Thompson to sign 2-year deal with Heat
    2. www.nbcsports.com — Report: Thompson gave back $9.8 million in buyout
    3. sports.yahoo.com — Wizards Should Connect With Kevin Durant for Homecoming With Anthony Davis
    4. www.forbes.com — The Houston Rockets' Shrewd Negotiating Could Extend Their Title Window
    confidence 90%
  14. Kawhi Leonard Trade to Raptors Delayed by NBA Investigation

    The Kawhi Leonard trade between the Los Angeles Clippers and Toronto Raptors is on hold due to an NBA investigation into salary cap circumvention. The deal, agreed upon in June, may not be finalized until the investigation concludes, potentially extending into 2027. The Raptors view the acquisition as a win-now strategy. The Dallas Mavericks, who signed Klay Thompson before the 2024-25 season, are also exploring roster moves.

    Why it matters

    The NBA's investigation into Kawhi Leonard's salary cap circumvention is delaying his trade to the Toronto Raptors. This situation affects not only the teams involved but also the league's salary cap system. The Raptors are seeking to bolster their roster for a competitive push. Klay Thompson's potential move to the Los Angeles Lakers or Clippers adds to the Western Conference's shifting landscape.

    What is confirmed

    • Kawhi Leonard's trade to the Toronto Raptors is delayed due to an NBA investigation into salary cap circumvention.
    • The investigation could potentially extend into 2027.
    • Klay Thompson signed with the Dallas Mavericks before the 2024-25 NBA campaign.

    Still unconfirmed

    • Klay Thompson would welcome a move to the Los Angeles Lakers or Clippers.
    • The Chicago Bulls could present the Los Angeles Clippers with a strong Bennedict Mathurin sign-and-trade offer.
    • The Dallas Mavericks have put together a productive offseason.

    What to watch next

    • The conclusion of the NBA investigation into Kawhi Leonard's salary cap circumvention
    • Klay Thompson's potential move to the Los Angeles Lakers or Clippers
    • The finalization of the Kawhi Leonard trade to the Toronto Raptors
    Sources used for this update (8)
    1. sports.yahoo.com — Lakers Rumors: Klay Thompson ‘Would Welcome’ Los Angeles Move Amid Miami Heat Rumors
    2. sports.yahoo.com — 4x NBA Champion Would Welcome a Move to the Lakers or Clippers
    3. www.foxsports.com — JONATHAN KUMINGA NEWS
    4. www.cbssports.com — Kawhi Leonard investigation lingering questions: How bad can things get for Steve Ballmer and the Clippers?
    5. sports.yahoo.com — NBA rumors: Why Bulls’ potential Bennedict Mathurin sign-and-trade offer stands out
    6. sports.yahoo.com — Mavericks Trade Pitch Lands 11x All-Star for Kyrie Irving in 4-Team Deal
    7. eu.usatoday.com — Kawhi Leonard investigation could be wrapped up within the next six weeks?
    8. sports.yahoo.com — New Kawhi Leonard Cap-Circumvention Allegations Raise The Stakes For The NBA
    confidence 70%
  15. Kawhi Leonard Trade to Toronto Raptors Remains on Hold

    The Los Angeles Clippers and Toronto Raptors agreed to a trade for Kawhi Leonard in June, but the deal is not yet finalized. The transaction remains on hold as the NBA continues an investigation into Leonard's salary cap circumvention. This investigation is reportedly delaying the move and could potentially extend into 2027. Toronto views the acquisition of the 35-year-old two-time NBA Finals MVP as a win-now strategy to push the team toward a breakthrough in a competitive conference.

    Why it matters

    The NBA is scrutinizing Leonard's contract for potential cap violations. Legal arbitration regarding punishments associated with this probe may last several years.

    What is confirmed

    • The Los Angeles Clippers and Toronto Raptors agreed to a trade for Kawhi Leonard in June.
    • The trade for Kawhi Leonard is currently on hold pending an NBA investigation.
    • The NBA investigation into Leonard could continue into 2027.

    Still unconfirmed

    • The trade between the Clippers and Raptors may fall apart due to the ongoing investigation.
    • The Raptors are considering a 3-team proposal involving Donovan Mitchell.

    What to watch next

    • NBA announcement regarding the conclusion of the salary cap investigation
    • Official league confirmation of the Leonard trade finalization
    • Rulings from legal arbitration regarding Leonard's punishments
    Sources used for this update (5)
    1. www.cbssports.com — As the Kawhi Leonard investigation drags on, it's time to wonder if his trade to the Raptors will fall apart
    2. eu.usatoday.com — NBA Intel: James Harden, Peyton Watson, Jonathan Kuminga, Benn Mathurin, more
    3. www.si.com — What’s Delaying NBA’s Kawhi Leonard Investigation? Timberwolves, Joe Smith Case May Have the Answer
    4. sports.yahoo.com — Raptors Gifted Donovan Mitchell-Kawhi Leonard Duo Major in 3-Team Proposal
    5. sports.yahoo.com — New Kawhi Leonard Expectation Brings Positive Thinking for Toronto Raptors
    confidence 90%
  16. Raptors and Clippers Plan to Finalize Kawhi Leonard Trade

    The Toronto Raptors and Los Angeles Clippers intend to complete a trade for Kawhi Leonard. This move comes as the NBA continues an investigation into Leonard's salary cap circumvention. Legal arbitration over punishments could last until 2027.

    What's confirmed:

    • The NBA is investigating Kawhi Leonard for salary cap circumvention with the LA Clippers.
    • The investigation into Leonard could extend into 2027 due to arbitration on punishments.

    Still unconfirmed:

    • Kawhi Leonard is a secret investor in a professional soccer club based in Pawtucket, Rhode Island.
    • The Raptors and Clippers still plan to complete a trade for Kawhi Leonard.
    Sources used for this update (5)
    1. NBA free agency: Analysis of the biggest moves
    2. New Kawhi Leonard ‘Secret’ Deal Adds More Fire To The NBA’s Investigation
    3. Kawhi Leonard, Aspiration saga could drag into 2027 due to arbitration on potential punishments
    4. Joel Embiid for Anthony Davis? Don't get your hopes up on trade to reunite LeBron James with former co-star
    5. Kawhi Leonard’s Raptors future revealed amid ongoing NBA investigation
    confidence 80%
  17. Mavericks and Raptors Explore Kawhi Leonard Trade With Clippers

    The Los Angeles Clippers have held discussions regarding a trade for Kawhi Leonard. Both the Dallas Mavericks and Toronto Raptors have expressed interest in the star forward. Reports indicate the Mavericks are pursuing a deal involving multiple players.

    What's confirmed:

    • The Dallas Mavericks and Los Angeles Clippers have discussed a trade for Kawhi Leonard.
    • The Toronto Raptors and Los Angeles Clippers have held talks for Kawhi Leonard.

    Still unconfirmed:

    • Kawhi Leonard is only interested in extending his contract with former teams.
    • Mavericks president Masai Ujiri wants to reunite with Kawhi Leonard.
    Sources used for this update (15)
    1. The Raptors want to be "opportunistic" on the trade market ... and maybe even nostalgic
    2. NBA free agency 2026 live updates: Latest trades, news and rumors after LaMelo Ball, Giannis Antetokounmpo blockbusters
    3. Kawhi Leonard trade rumors: Raptors and Clippers have held 'real' talks for former Finals MVP, per report
    4. Mavericks, Clippers Have Explored Kawhi Leonard Trade
    5. Kawhi Leonard reportedly drawing interest from Mavericks, Raptors in trade discussions with Clippers
    6. Kawhi Leonard trade rumors: Raptors, Clippers have 'real' talks ...
    7. 2026 NBA buzz: Latest free agency and trade updates - ESPN
    8. Mavericks, Clippers Have Explored Kawhi Leonard Trade
    9. Clippers Have Discussed Kawhi Leonard Trade With Mavericks
    10. Mavericks Discussed Kawhi Leonard Trade With Clippers
    11. Mavericks In Discussions With Clippers For Kahwi Leonard Trade
    12. Kawhi Leonard Trade Rumors Explode as Mavericks, Clippers Discuss ...
    confidence 80%
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