The LA Clippers organisation has launched a vehement defence against what it describes as 'categorically false' allegations that All-Star forward Kawhi Leonard received a staggering $28 million payment for a front office job that did not exist.
In an official statement released on Wednesday, the franchise slammed the claims as 'baseless' and 'without merit', asserting their full compliance with the NBA's stringent collective bargaining agreement and salary cap regulations.
Franchise Fury Over 'Baseless' Claims
The controversy erupted from reports suggesting the two-time NBA Finals MVP was compensated for a phantom executive position, a claim the Clippers' front office has moved swiftly to extinguish.
'The organisation operates with the utmost integrity and transparency in all player contracts and agreements,' the statement continued, highlighting their commitment to league rules.
A History of Management Trust
This isn't the first time Leonard's relationship with the Clippers' hierarchy has been under the microscope. The 34-year-old forward, known for his quiet demeanour and colossal on-court impact, has previously been consulted on basketball operations matters, a common practice for franchise cornerstones.
However, the team's statement drew a clear line, emphasising that any such advisory roles have always been 'fully disclosed and compliant' with league regulations, starkly contrasting the alleged 'ghost job'.
League Scrutiny and Potential Fallout
Allegations of secret payments are among the most serious breaches in professional sports, carrying the potential for severe penalties from the NBA league office, including massive fines, loss of draft picks, or even the voiding of contracts.
As of now, there has been no official comment from the NBA regarding an investigation, nor has Kawhi Leonard's representation publicly addressed the swirling rumours. The sports world now watches closely to see if this story fades away or ignites into a full-blown league probe.
