Adam Silver provides update on Kawhi Leonard investigation

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver provided an update on the ongoing investigation into Kawhi Leonard and the Los Angeles Clippers, which has reportedly grown in scope. This comes after the Toronto Raptors' attempt to reacquire Leonard has been paused due to the allegations that the Clippers circumvented salary cap rules through a deal involving the now-defunct carbon credits company, Aspiration.

The investigation originally began 10 months ago, with expectations for a resolution prior to the current offseason. However, the new league year commenced without any official updates regarding the investigation or any potential consequences for those involved. Last week, both the Raptors and the Clippers issued statements regarding the trade hold-up, with Toronto acknowledging that it would bear any risks associated with possible penalties handed to Leonard.

On July 14, 2026, The Athletic reported that the probe had not only been delayed but had also expanded to include other improper expenses allegedly covered by the Clippers for Leonard, as well as the potential existence of a second unreported endorsement deal with another entity. Multiple anonymous sources indicated that the league’s law firm, Wachtell Lipton, has been investigating all facets of the arrangement between the Clippers and Leonard.

Silver spoke following the NBA Board of Governors meetings in Las Vegas, indicating that the investigation should be concluded before the start of next season. "I would say this can be wrapped up -- and needs to be wrapped up -- before next season," he said.

The investigation relates in part to a marketing campaign that features Leonard in a character alignment with Marvel's Groot, tying his interest in comics with Aspiration’s mission to plant trees. Although this marketing effort failed to launch, it suggested a public intent to establish Leonard's collaboration with Aspiration. The reasons for the campaign's failure might also be examined as part of the league's inquiry.

While awaiting the investigation's outcome, the Clippers expressed confidence that the trade for Leonard would be finalized following the conclusion of the inquiry. They reported full cooperation with the investigation, including extensive interviews and document submissions. "While the process has been challenging, we have remained committed to transparency," the team remarked.