The NBA's investigation into the Los Angeles Clippers and Kawhi Leonard has dominated the league's headlines. Los Angeles reportedly attempted to circumvent the NBA salary cap by paying money to Leonard through a bankrupt company called Aspiration. As of now, the NBA has not finalized its investigation; However, a franchise-altering decision may be coming.
Sports Illustrated's Chris Mannix joins Rachel Nichols on Open Floor to discuss the NBA's investigation into the Clippers. While the NBA continues to work on the scandal, the Clippers may receive a "basketball death sentence."
"I don't know what's in that thing, but certainly a lot of people in NBA front offices around the league are speculating that something is going to happen," Mannix said. "It's some kind of punishment. Whether it's a slap on the wrist or, you know, a basketball death penalty, I don't know. But there's a lot of curiosity right now about how close the NBA is getting to revealing all this."
This would be a terrible outcome for Los Angeles, as it would cripple the organization for years to come. However, what is the NBA's version of basketball death penalty likely to include?
Los Angeles Clippers' potential penalties for Kawhi Leonard scandal
There is precedent for teams messing with the NBA salary cap. In 2000, the NBA voided Joe Smith's contract with the Minnesota Timberwolves after circumventing the salary cap. Minnesota was also stripped of five first-round picks, fined $3.5 million, and officials Kevin McHale and Glenn Taylor were suspended.
The Clippers could face similar punishment; However, more drastic action may be taken. There are rumors that Leonard's contract could also be voided, which would affect the Clippers' immediate future as a playoff contender. This would bring the superstar forward into NBA free agency.
As of now, the Clippers have several first-round picks that could be traded away, so there won't be a problem if the NBA decides to go that route. Meanwhile, the potential fine could exceed $3.5 million, as the value has increased over the past 26 years. Either way, Los Angeles could face devastating consequences from the NBA's investigation.
It's unclear when the NBA will release its findings, but the Clippers hope it won't result in the NBA's version of a "basketball death sentence."
READ MORE: NBA could void Kawhi Leonard's contract amid Los Angeles Clippers investigation
