[NBA] Leonard trade halted! League continues investigation into "dual contracts"; Raptors refuse to take on risks prematurely.

Clippers star Kawhi Leonard was originally traded to the Raptors, but the Clippers announced today (10th) that the trade must wait until the league's investigation into whether the Clippers violated the salary cap before it can be officially finalized.

The Clippers originally traded Leonard to the Raptors, while Toronto sent Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, two unprotected first-round draft picks in 2031 and 2033, a first-round draft swap in 2027, and two second-round draft picks.

Clippers star Kawhi Leonard (left) was originally traded to the Raptors.

However, the NBA has been investigating the Clippers since September of last year. This stemmed from a report by reporter Pablo Torre, who accused the Clippers of using unofficial means to have Kawhi Leonard sign a $28 million "dual contract" with the environmental fintech company Aspiration. The contract allegedly required Leonard to remain with the Clippers without performing any actual work, leading the league to suspect the Clippers of using this method to circumvent the team salary cap.

In response, the Clippers stated, "This trade can only be completed if the Raptors are willing to assume the risk of penalties that may arise from the league's investigation into Leonard's contract." The Raptors subsequently issued a statement in response, saying, "The team will wait for the results of the NBA investigation rather than assume the risks in advance. We are still very much looking forward to welcoming Leonard back and hope that this matter can be resolved as soon as possible, for the player, the team, and the fans."