The highly anticipated trade that would send Kawhi Leonard back to the Toronto Raptors from the LA Clippers has been put on hold. The NBA has launched an investigation into a US$28-million endorsement deal Leonard signed with Aspiration, a now-bankrupt company, during his tenure with the Clippers. This probe is the reason for the current delay.
The initial agreement, set for June 30th, would have seen Leonard return to Toronto in exchange for Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, two first-round draft picks, a 2027 pick swap, and two second-round picks. However, the Raptors organization has indicated they will not finalize the trade until the league completes its investigation.
The controversy stems from the endorsement deal signed with Aspiration while Leonard was a member of the Clippers. The details of this deal are now under scrutiny by the NBA, leading to the pause in what was considered a blockbuster move for the Raptors.
