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Clippers Embroiled in 'Ghost Injury' Scandal

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, February 13th 2026 at 16:10 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: UNITED STATES, CANADA

The Core of the Allegation: A 'Ghost' Injury?

The NBA's investigation centers on whether the Clippers intentionally categorized Leonard's activities - including workouts and rehabilitation - as stemming from a lingering injury. This alleged misclassification would allow the team to utilize a valuable 'player exception,' a mechanism designed to allow teams to sign additional players without exceeding the salary cap. Essentially, the claim is the Clippers created a perceived need for injury-related treatment to justify roster flexibility they weren't entitled to. The motivation is clear: to build a more competitive roster around Leonard and Paul George without incurring significant financial penalties.

How the Scheme Allegedly Worked: Toronto Connection & Dodgy Designations

The alleged scheme wasn't limited to Los Angeles. A significant portion of the activity in question reportedly occurred at a training facility in Toronto, where Leonard previously played for the Raptors. This geographical separation adds another layer of complexity to the investigation. By designating these sessions as injury-related, even if they were primarily focused on skill maintenance or strength and conditioning, the Clippers could potentially free up cap space. This tactic, if proven true, would be a clear violation of the NBA's collective bargaining agreement.

Steve Ballmer Implicated: Owner's Direct Involvement The allegations extend beyond team staff, directly implicating Clippers owner Steve Ballmer. Wojnarowski's reporting suggests Ballmer was not merely aware of the alleged scheme but was heavily involved in its planning and execution. This is particularly damaging, as owners are held to a higher standard of conduct and face potentially harsher penalties for rule violations. A hands-on owner like Ballmer, known for his aggressive pursuit of success, adds a crucial dimension to the narrative.

A History of Scrutiny: Timeline of Events The current investigation isn't happening in a vacuum. The Clippers faced similar concerns back in early 2021, suggesting a pattern of potentially questionable practices. However, the NBA seemingly relaxed its scrutiny, only to reopen the investigation in late 2023. The recent intensification in February 2024, triggered by Wojnarowski's report, indicates the league has uncovered compelling evidence to warrant a deeper dive. The fact that the issue resurfaced after a period of dormancy demonstrates the seriousness with which the NBA is now treating the matter.

Potential Penalties: Draft Picks, Fines, and Personnel Suspensions The consequences for the Clippers, if found guilty, could be severe. The NBA has a range of disciplinary actions at its disposal, including substantial fines, the loss of future draft picks - a particularly crippling penalty for a team aiming for championship contention - and the suspension of team personnel, potentially including Ballmer himself. The severity of the penalties would likely depend on the extent of the violation and the league's assessment of the Clippers' intent. Losing draft capital would impact the Clippers' long-term sustainability.

Leonard's Silence & Clippers' Denial

Kawhi Leonard has remained conspicuously silent on the matter, a typical strategy for players embroiled in team-related investigations. This silence allows the league and the team to control the narrative, at least initially. The Clippers, however, have issued a statement vehemently denying the allegations. They claim to have fully cooperated with the NBA's investigation and maintain their compliance with all league rules and regulations. This denial, while expected, will likely do little to appease league officials given the specifics of the accusations. Their full cooperation will be assessed through the submitted evidence.

The Broader Implications: Salary Cap Integrity and Competitive Balance

This investigation isn't just about the Clippers and Kawhi Leonard. It's about the integrity of the NBA's salary cap system and maintaining a level playing field for all teams. The salary cap is designed to prevent wealthy teams from simply buying championships, and any deliberate attempt to circumvent it undermines the league's commitment to competitive balance. If the allegations are proven true, it could force the NBA to revisit its rules and enforcement mechanisms to prevent similar incidents in the future. The league will likely look to further tighten rules around injury reporting and team facilities usage.

As the investigation continues, the NBA world will be watching closely, waiting to see how this unfolding drama impacts the Clippers, Kawhi Leonard, and the future of the league's salary cap landscape.