The LA Clippers and their fanbase is still reeling and recovering after the NBA announced sanctions against the franchise for violating the Collective Bargaining Agreement in deals with superstar forward Kawhi Leonard.
Earlier this week, Steve Ballmer released a statement saying that he as well as the organization are reluctantly accepting the NBA's findings and punishment. Shortly thereafter, both the Clippers and Toronto Raptors finalized the agreements on their trade for the two-time NBA Finals MVP, sending Kawhi Leonard back to the franchise he helped lead to the 2019 NBA Championship.
With Leonard officially becoming a Raptor, the forward posted a message to Clippers fans on social media through his âÂÂKawhi's Klawsetâ account on Instagram.
âÂÂI truly appreciate your unwavering support during both the highs and lows. Thank you, Clip Nation.âÂÂ
Article Continues BelowThe comments on the social media post, however, have been turned off.
Kawhi Leonard finished his career with the Clippers having played 331 regular season games and 35 playoff games in six years, averaging 25.1 points, 6.4 rebounds, 4.1 assists, and 1.7 steals per game.
What Leonard will be most remembered for is forcing the Clippers to trade for Paul George, giving up Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Danilo Gallinari in the process in addition to five first round draft picks. His uncle, Dennis Robertson, repeatedly made demands to get Leonard off-court endorsement opportunities, which has now led to the Clippers giving up another five future first round draft picks as part of the NBA's punishment.
Steve Ballmer will serve a one-year suspension, President of Business Operations Gillian Zucker will serve a one-year suspension, and President of Basketball Operations Lawrence Frank will serve a six month suspension.

