Kawhi Leonard Aspiration Bombshell: Clippers, Ballmer Questioned

Merlin sees fresh smoke around Kawhi Leonard’s alleged side deals: Pablo Torre reports Leonard "was personally 'guaranteed' another $20 million in Aspiration equity" and sources described a "so-called put option" to sell that equity back for $20 million. Torre also says the Clippers and owner Steve Ballmer tried to route $28 million as an endorsement to dodge the salary cap. Ballmer admitted he made an introduction — "We even found the email..." — and the NBA has opened an investigation. One coach called it "embarrassing for the league." Merlin senses this is more than gossip. If those guarantees and the put option are confirmed, penalties could range from fines to lost cap relief or reputational damage for the Clippers and Ballmer. Mark Cuban’s defense won’t calm every skeptic; the league will press for clarity before media day and the season starts.