NBA launches investigation into Kawhi Leonard's trade to Clippers for the SECOND time

NBA have launched an investigation into Los Angeles Clippers' acquisition of Kawhi Leonard. four-time NBA All-Star, who won NBA Finals MVP with Toronto Raptors signed for Clippers for a reported $103 million three-year contract, which includes an opt-out clause in 2021. w a man named Johnny Wilkes has filed suit against Jerry West, who plays an executive role with Clippers, alleging he was supposed to be paid $2.5 million for helping push Leonard toward franchise. 

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Clippers Investigation: NBA investigating Clippers over Kawhi Leonard trade 

According to a report by TMZ Sports, Johnny Wilkes claimed that he 'went to work immediately' after Clippers expressed ir interest in signing Kawhi Leonard who was top pick of free-nt class last summer. Wilkes claims in lawsuit that he began convincing Kawhi and player's uncle that Clippers were right team for him after he had just left  Toronto Raptors. Wilkes subsequently relayed that Clippers needed to get Paul George on board in order to get Leonard, following which he helped m connect with former Raptors' star's uncle.

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Wilkes also claimed that he gave West a specific gameplan for how Clippers should pitch Kawhi during an important meeting with West, Leonard, Doc Rivers and ors in July 2019. Jerry West meanwhile has denied all claims and reveals that he is unaware of any lawsuit filed against him. Clippers have also denied any wrongdoing in an official statement. Leonard put pen to paper on a three-year deal worth $103.1 million, which he can opt out of after this season.

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According to Athletic's Sam Amick, NBA will be investigating Clippers on ir acquisition of Kawhi Leonard. This is second time that deal is being investigated with Amick earlier reporting that in December 2019 league conducted a formal investigation against Clippers after complaints surfaced that Kawhi's uncle Dennis Robertson had asked for improper benefits during free ncy process. If found guilty, Clippers could face a heavier punishment than what Minnesota Timberwolves received considering commissioner Adam Silver has emphasized importance of following anti-tampering statutes. Timberwolves were stripped of five first-round picks in 2000 after circumvented league rules to sign Joe Smith.

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(Im Courtesy: nba.com)