Steve Ballmer promised that the Los Angeles Clippers would be “hardcore.” Eleven years later, the franchise’s future is in jeopardy, with a major question looming: Is it time to move on from Kawhi Leonard?
Kawhi Leonard’s relationship with the Clippers has been tumultuous. Signed in 2019, the Clippers bet their future on Leonard, giving up Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and multiple first-round picks for Paul George to appease him. Leonard’s demands reshaped the entire franchise, from his helicopter commutes to his control over marketing and media obligations. But despite these luxuries, the Clippers have seen only three playoff series wins and no Finals appearances in six seasons.
Growing Legal Scrutiny and NBA Investigation
Leonard’s track record has been a constant concern. “At some point, Steve has to get out of the Kawhi Leonard business,” said a former staffer, quoted by Baxter Holmes on NBA Today. Leonard has suited up for only 58% of available games, and his body continues to break down at crucial times.
The Clippers’ faith in Leonard is being tested by mounting issues. Legal scrutiny has increased, with the NBA investigating Leonard’s health disclosures, tampering allegations, and a $28 million sponsorship deal. “This last investigation is different,” one former staffer warned. “This one directly calls into question Steve Ballmer’s character.”
Despite all this, Leonard remains under contract for two more years at $50 million annually. When that deal expires, he will be 36 years old, with more surgical scars than playoff banners to show for his time in LA.
The Future of the Clippers and Leonard’s Contract
While the Clippers remain hopeful that a healthy Leonard can anchor a contender, the team’s inability to build around him effectively remains a major flaw. As Holmes added, “People I talked to do said they expect him to play through this current contract. Beyond that, no one’s quite sure.”
Leonard’s time in LA has not just been disappointing on the court but also off it. The trade that sent Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to Oklahoma City has become one of the most lopsided in league history. The Thunder are contending with SGA, while the Clippers remain stuck, betting on the health of a player with a questionable relationship with transparency.
Possible NBA Penalties and Future Impact
Now, the NBA has launched an investigation into Leonard’s sponsorship deal, with the potential for severe penalties. “My responsibility ultimately is the integrity of this league,” said NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, addressing concerns about competitive balance.
The question remains: What should Ballmer do now? “People I talked to do said they expect him to play through this current contract. Beyond that, no one’s quite sure.”
For the Clippers, the hope is to ride out Leonard’s contract, but with aging stars like James Harden, Bradley Beal, and Chris Paul also on the roster, the team’s future is uncertain. The advice from an anonymous source is clear: cutting Leonard loose might be the right move.
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