NBA fines Clippers $30M, Kawhi Leonard confirms Raptors move

The NBA has concluded its investigation into salary cap circumvention by the Los Angeles Clippers, issuing severe penalties to the organization and a fine to star player Kawhi Leonard, who has now publicly confirmed his intention to join the Toronto Raptors. The league announced on Wednesday that the Clippers were fined $30 million, owner Steve Ballmer was suspended for one year, and key executives received suspensions without pay following a nearly yearlong probe. Leonard was fined $700,000 for lapses in judgment by his inner circle, though his contract and playing eligibility remain intact. In a statement released through his agent shortly after the ruling, Leonard accepted responsibility for the actions of those around him but maintained he acted in good faith. "I accept full responsibility for lapses in judgment by people within my inner circle and regret the distraction this situation has caused the fans and my family," Leonard wrote. He added that he entered into his contract and related agreements "with no knowledge of any intent on anyone's part to circumvent the salary cap." The statement also served as a definitive announcement about his future.