The NBA imposed one of the toughest penalties in its history on Wednesday, targeting the Los Angeles Clippers for circumventing the salary cap. The penalties follow a near-year-long investigation into deals designed to bypass league rules, specifically involving star forward Kawhi Leonard.
The league stripped the Clippers of five first-round draft picks and issued a $30 million fine to the team. Owner Steve Ballmer and two executives were suspended, with Ballmer receiving a one-year suspension. Additionally, Kawhi Leonard was ordered to pay $700,000.
The Los Angeles Clippers stated they will vigorously challenge the punishments and dispute the league's conclusions and the validity of the investigation. However, the team has limited options to do so.