The NBA officially closed their investigation into the LA Clippers regarding potential salary cap circumvention regarding Kawhi Leonard, and the official punishments were handed down. With everybody in the world weighing in on the situation, Phoenix Suns owner Mat Ishbia was one of the latest to express his thoughts, as per Daniel Roberts of Front Office Sports.
As per Roberts, Mat Ishbia acknowledged that while what the Clippers and Steve Ballmer did regarding Kawhi Leonard, that at the crux of things, Ballmer is a good owner who probably regrets the decisions made.
“I think Steve probably regrets what he did,” Ishbia said. “I’m sure Steve realized he made a mistake. It doesn’t make me not like Steve. I think Steve Ballmer’s a great owner … That was a misstep.”
In the aftermath of the NBA’s investigation, Ballmer was given a one year suspension where he cannot have any contact with the team nor be around them in any capacity. President of business operations Gillian Zucker was also given a year long suspension with the same stipulations. President of basketball operations Lawrence Frank was given a six-month suspension.
Article Continues BelowThe Clippers were also stripped of their first round picks for five years beginning with the 2029 NBA Draft and ending in 2033. Leonard was fined $70,000 and his uncle Dennis Robertson, who had been his representation, was banned for five years from conducting business with the NBA.
Leonard has since been traded to the Raptors in a previously agreed upon deal before the NBA’s punishment. The Clippers officially tipped off their post-Leonard era with a win against the Sacramento Kings on opening night.