The NBA’s multiyear inquiry into the Los Angeles Clippers appears to be closing in on a conclusion.
Clippers
ESPN’s Baxter Holmes reported that forward Kawhi Leonard and his uncle and adviser, Dennis Robertson, have been questioned by league officials examining whether the franchise skirted salary-cap rules during Leonard’s 2019 free-agency recruitment. The probe centers on allegations that Leonard received improper benefits tied to an endorsement deal with the now-defunct financial firm Aspiration.
Owner Steve Ballmer and additional team executives have also sat for interviews. While the Clippers continue to reject any suggestion of wrongdoing, Holmes noted that some inside the organization are frustrated by what they view as an obligation to prove their innocence in a case they say lacks substance.
Commissioner Adam Silver recently confirmed the investigation is “nearing completion,” though he offered no timetable for a ruling.
Lakers
Guard Austin Reaves is expected to opt out of his player option and test free agency, according to Los Angeles Times reporter Broderick Turner. Turner said Reaves is seeking a maximum-level deal after averaging a career-best 23.3 points this season, a performance that solidified his role as one of the Lakers’ primary scorers.
The 28-year-old is widely projected to receive a substantial raise; the lingering question is whether a rival club will force Los Angeles into a bidding contest for his services.
Trail Blazers
After a string of injuries in prior seasons, center Robert Williams appeared in 59 games—his highest total in four years—and anchored Portland’s interior defense. He posted averages of 6.7 points, 7.0 rebounds and 1.5 blocks while converting more than 70 percent of his field-goal attempts.
Keith Smith of Spotrac estimates that Williams’ production could command approximately $18 million annually in a new contract. The Trail Blazers must now weigh that price tag against the 26-year-old’s medical history, while multiple teams are expected to pursue center help this summer.
The decisions surrounding Leonard’s investigation, Reaves’ contract aspirations and Williams’ market value headline what promises to be an active NBA offseason.
Source: Hoops Wire
