DOJ Launches Criminal Investigation into Clippers and Kawhi Leonard

The U.S. Department of Justice has reportedly begun a criminal investigation into the Los Angeles Clippers and their star player Kawhi Leonard. This follows an NBA probe that indicated the team, under owner Steve Ballmer, may have circumvented salary cap regulations through third-party agreements that allegedly funneled significant funds to Leonard.

According to a report from The New York Times, the investigation is being conducted by the U.S. attorney's Eastern District of New York office in Brooklyn, which has a history of handling high-profile sports-related cases, including the infamous Tim Donaghy scandal involving game-fixing by an NBA referee.

The scope and specific targets of the current investigation remain unclear, although at least one subpoena has been issued. Sources have indicated that it is uncertain whether the probe will lead to any criminal charges against those involved.

This news comes just days after the NBA released findings from its own investigation, which uncovered a pattern of misconduct and multiple significant violations by the Clippers organization. The league imposed severe penalties, including the loss of five first-round draft picks and a $30 million fine for Ballmer, along with suspensions for several team executives.

The Clippers have publicly rejected the NBA's findings, claiming the investigation was biased and flawed. Leonard has expressed regret over the situation, acknowledging lapses in judgment within his inner circle and the distraction it has caused to fans and family.