In professional sports, athletes have to look out for themselves. Opinions are thrown at them from every direction, like which players they should team up with, whether to stay with their current team or look for a better situation.

It is up to the players to make the decisions they believe will benefit them the most. The tricky part: what might seem like a great choice in the moment could turn into a never-ending game of “what ifs” had things gone differently.

No greater decision in the NBA exemplifies that more than Kawhi Leonard’s departure from the Raptors in 2019. 

Kawhi Leonard Was a Star with the Spurs

After the San Antonio Spurs won the NBA title in 2014, Kawhi began emerging as a star in the league. He had just been named Finals MVP on a squad with Tony Parker and Tim Duncan, becoming the second-youngest player ever to win the award. 

Over the subsequent three seasons, he became an All-Star, won Defensive Player of the Year twice and was the runner-up for MVP. With the Spurs’ big three nearing the end of their careers, Kawhi was primed to take over the keys to the franchise. 

But things changed after he got injured in the 2017 playoffs. 

He sprained his left ankle in the Western Conference Semifinals against the Rockets. Then, he reaggravated his ankle in the following series after landing on Zaza Pachulia’s foot. The latter injury would change the course of Kawhi’s career and the franchise’s trajectory.

In the midst of recovering from his ankle injury, he developed tendinopathy in his right quad, which kept him out for the start of the 2017-18 season. He played just nine games that year before being ruled out again with tendinopathy in January. Kawhi never returned to play another game as a Spur. 

The Fallout Between Kawhi and the Spurs

The presumed consensus surrounding why Kawhi demanded out in 2018 was that his relationship with the organization had fizzled. Throughout his time injured, people in the organization questioned his commitment to the team and undermining the severity of his ailment.

As his timetable to return kept getting pushed back, Tony Parker was skeptical of just how badly his teammate was injured. Parker suffered a quad injury in the past, and seemingly cited his shorter recovery period to delegitimize his injury. He also disparaged Kawhi’s decision to consult several medical opinions outside of the Spurs’ medical staff.

“It was a rehab for me for eight months,” Parker said, comparing his length of absence to Kawhi’s. “Same kind of injury, but mine was a hundred times worse.”

Head Coach Gregg Popovich was then asked if he thought Kawhi could return before the end of the 2018 season. His response marked the official burning of a bridge that had all but crumbled. 

“You’ll have to ask Kawhi and his group that question,” he remarked. “So far, they say that he’s not ready to go. So we can’t do anything until that happens…”

Hearing those words rubbed Kawhi the wrong way.

Parker and Popovich’s comments told the whole story about the falling out: They had grown tired of waiting for Kawhi’s personal team to clear him to play because he had already been given the green light by the team medical staff. 

The Raptors Had a Roster Built to Compete

Kawhi’s trade to Toronto in the summer of 2018 was shocking for numerous reasons. First, the Raptors dealt one of their franchise players, DeMar DeRozan, without any warning after assuring him he wouldn’t be moved. Second, Toronto was not on the list of top destinations Kawhi wished to be sent to. 

The San Diego native made it known that he didn’t intend to stay with Toronto for the long haul. But winning a championship in his first season there felt like the kind of caveat that could alter his decision. 

On paper, everything was set up for Kawhi to re-sign. The Raptors had an up-and-coming bench unit and several players on the verge of breaking out. Four players – Norman Powell, Pascal Siakam, OG Anunoby, and Fred VanVleet – were on the come-up. They have all gone on to either win an NBA championship, reach the finals, or make the All-Star team.

“Everything was positioned perfectly,” fellow 2019 NBA champion Fred VanVleet said. 

Kawhi Left a Great Situation

In addition to the talent of the roster, the medical staff had reached a great synergy with Kawhi. They created a plan of load management to ensure he was ready and healthy come postseason. 

Still, his teammates knew his intention was never to be there long-term. 

“He said it from day one. ‘I’m not staying here,’” VanVleet relayed. “So from day one…’I don’t know why they traded for me. I don’t want to be here. I’m not staying here.’”

Regardless of what Kawhi stated at the beginning of the season, there was a glimmer of hope he might stick around when the city rallied to persuade him.

Restaurants and businesses promised free meals to him if he affirmed his commitment to the city. Additionally, Toronto offered him more than the L.A. Clippers – a max extension of five years, $189.7 million. 

He said no to both. 

That is where the X-Factor behind the star’s decision-making comes into play.

Family Interfering in Business

In comes Dennis Robertson, also known as Uncle Dennis. After Kawhi’s dad was shockingly murdered when Kawhi was little, Uncle Dennis became a father figure. Uncle Dennis is more than just an uncle to Kawhi; he is his manager and a primary voice in many of the business deals made by his nephew.

It is not unheard of for family members to be a part of athletes’ business decisions. But his influence may have been overbearing. While it was reported that Kawhi picked the L.A. Clippers so he could play closer to home, there’s more to the story.

Many sources divulged that Dennis suggested outlandish demands to Toronto when Kawhi was making his free agency decision. Among his requests were a trade for Paul George to pair alongside his nephew, and a piece of ownership in the Toronto Maple Leafs and other companies affiliated with Maple Leaf Sports and Entertainment. But sports teams are prohibited from negotiating deals with team sponsors.

He then demanded a minimum of $10 million annually from sponsorships. 

What’s worse is that the same saga Kawhi found himself in with the fraudulent Aspiration deal occurred back then. Robertson and Kawhi’s team made it known that they didn’t want Kawhi to fulfill any obligations typically associated with sponsorship deals.

Danny Green, a teammate for eight seasons with Kawhi in Toronto and San Antonio, believes Dennis played a substantial role in Kawhi’s exit from the Spurs, too.

“His uncle had a lot of (influence on) what to do, what was going on, off the court…,” he said on All the Smoke. “I think once his uncle saw some distasteful things–in his mind, it was like, ‘alright, we not doin this…’” 

What Could Have Been

Between Kawhi finding himself under fire for under-the-table scandals and his tenure with the Clippers proving underwhelming, he should have never left Toronto.

Kawhi did receive his wish with the Clippers when they brought in Paul George to be his running mate. However, forming the star duo came at a hefty cost. 

The Clippers mortgaged a haul of future draft picks and shipped 2025 MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander to the Thunder in exchange for George. Despite missing the playoffs in three seasons and undergoing a complete rebuild, Gilgeous-Alexander’s Thunder went farther than George and Kawhi were able to go. The Thunder won a championship; George and Kawhi reached the Western Conference Finals once in five seasons.

Back in Toronto, Kawhi was living a professional athlete’s perfect dream: He was a franchise cornerstone surrounded by emerging stars and a trusted team of medical professionals. Who knows how far the team could have gone if they had stayed together?

According to VanVleet, the Raptors squad had dynasty potential.

“Three-peat, for sure,” he said of what the group would have accomplished with Kawhi. “It was just a perfect group of individuals, and we all understood everybody had the right mindset for their roles. I think definitely we would have won a few more.”

The Raptors were loaded with defensive and offensive talent. Their player development was second to none, shaping second-round picks and undrafted players into NBA starters.

Kawhi Could Reunite with the Raptors

Amid reports that the Raptors are interested in the two-time Finals MVP and the Clippers may be unwilling to extend him, it is time for Kawhi to return to Toronto. On each of his two stops before coming to Canada, Kawhi–or his uncle–thought the next place would be better. Though he won a title immediately after leaving the Spurs, his rapacious desires may have finally caught up to him.

Toronto gave him a second chance to rise from the ashes and remind the world of the superstar he is. 

The grass is not always greener on the other side. And now, Kawhi Leonard is learning that the hard way.

The post Should Kawhi Leonard Have Ever Left the Raptors? appeared first on The Lead.

The Toronto Raptors will be entering the 2026 NBA Draft coming off one of their better seasons in quite a while.

The Raptors finished 46-36 in 2025-26 and made the playoffs for the first time since 2022. They took the Cleveland Cavaliers to a deciding Game 7 in the first round of the playoffs. Scottie Barnes earned his second All-Star nod and really elevated his performance during the postseason. The Raptors’ unconventional rebuilding process looks like it paid off.

Now, the franchise is looking to build up its current core, specifically around Barnes. The draft will be an essential part of that task.

Most of Toronto’s cap space is currently tied to its current starting five — Barnes, Brandon Ingram, Immanuel Quickley, RJ Barrett, and Jakob Poeltl. Improving the roster will rely on the Raptors either moving players or acquiring more talent via the draft.

Raptors Draft Picks:

• Round 1 — No. 19
• Round 2 — N0. 50

Raptors Draft Needs:

Toronto possesses a clear frontcourt of the future in Barnes and Collin Murray-Boyles. The Raptors finished fifth overall in defensive rating, per Basketball-Reference. The Barnes and CMB combo were an essential reason why. To improve, the Raptors must bring more scoring pop on the perimeter alongside the two young forwards.

The Raptors were toward the bottom of the league in three-point attempts (26th), makes (26th), and percentage (21st). The team’s efficiency stats and offensive rating were both middle of the pack in the league.

Specifically, guard remains Toronto’s biggest priority to address during the draft. Barrett is entering the last year of his deal. The same goes for the team’s recent high-first-rounder in Gradey Dick.

Raptors Draft Targets:

Meleek Thomas — Guard — Arkansas

On paper, Thomas brings the best of both worlds to the Toronto Raptors.

In his one year with the Arkansas Razorbacks, Thomas averaged 15.6 points per game and provided secondary scoring next to Darius Acuff Jr. That includes from the three-point line, where he made nearly 42% of his 5,3 attempts per contest.

But he isn’t just a scorer. At 6-foot-5 and 185 pounds, Thomas is big and fast enough to become an addition to what is already an elite Toronto defense. 

Isaiah Evans — Guard — Duke

Isaiah Evans of the Duke Blue Devils brings a similar profile to that of Thomas to the table.

Evans played two seasons at Duke, but took a leap this past year. His scoring doubled, and his role dramatically increased. But his efficiency stayed largely the same.

The three-point shooting is promising for Evans. He took a career-high 7.1 attempts per game and made 36% of them. He made 38% on high volume across two years.

But the most intriguing part of Evans is his potential to be more than just a perimeter shooter.

He moves off-ball, draws the attention of defenses, and will attack. He won’t be the number-one creator, but Evans can certainly be a part of a successful offense.

Koa Peat — Forward — Arizona

Admittedly, this is more of a wildcard option for the Raptors in the draft. That said, Koa Peat could bolster what is already a very intriguing frontcourt for the Toronto Raptors.

At 6-foot-8 and 235 pounds, Peat brings both size and finesse to the table. It’s especially true on offense, where he can either post up or occasionally knock it down from the outside. In today’s game, multi-position forwards are a top commodity, and Peat is the best one that’s available around pick No. 19.

If picked, that also allows Toronto to boast a core of Barnes, Murray-Boyles, and Peat. Toronto can maintain its defense, be extra versatile on offense, and have quality minutes at the frontcourt from tip-off to the final buzzer.

The post Toronto Raptors 2026 NBA Draft Preview appeared first on The Lead.

For years, the Toronto Raptors have searched for a reliable center — particularly one who can stretch the floor without disrupting offensive flow.

Although the Raptors are still searching for long-term stability at the position, center Sandro Mamukelashvili has begun to show he can become that reliable big man. While he may not consistently attract headlines, his on-court impact is beginning to grow.

A High-Level Stretch Big

Mamukelashvili’s greatest value comes from his ability to shoot from beyond the arc.

Standing at 6-foot-9 and roughly 240 pounds, he has established himself as a legitimate floor-spacing big man. For his career, he is shooting 36.6% from three-point range, but this season was his most efficient yet.

This season, he attempted a career-high 3.7 threes per game and connected on 38.9% of them. He finished the season with a career-high 115 3-pointers made, ranking third on the Raptors behind Immanuel Quickley and Brandon Ingram.

In recent years, consistent interior scoring has been a struggle for Toronto. Having a big man who can pull opposing defenders away from the paint and create driving lanes for guards is essential for the Raptors’ offense.

Offensive Versatility Beyond Shooting

While Mamukelashvili’s three-point shooting gets the most attention, other parts of his offensive game often go unnoticed.

Although he averages only 1.2 assists per game for his career, his playmaking ability is impressive for his size. He does a great job putting the ball on the floor and making smart passes to cutters. He can also push the ball in transition, initiate short-roll actions, and drive into the lane before kicking out to open shooters.

Aside from scoring and playmaking, Mamukelashvili is also effective off the ball. In addition to making spot-up shots, he can set screens effectively and cut behind defenses.

His Rising Market Value

Mamukelashvili is currently entering free agency after finishing a short-term veteran contract with the Raptors. But this summer could be a huge one for him.

Big men who shoot nearly 40% from beyond the arc are extremely valuable in today’s NBA. Even though Mamukelashvili isn’t a high-usage player, his efficient shooting, paired with his offensive skill set, makes him extremely valuable.

Another factor increasing his value is his age. Currently, Mamukelashvili is only 26 years old and entering his sixth NBA season. Considering he has avoided major injuries throughout his career, his availability is another positive factor.

Ultimately, the Raptors will have an important decision to make regarding Mamukelashvili’s future. While he isn’t a traditional star center, his ability to stretch the floor, move the ball, and fit into multiple offensive schemes makes him the type of modern big man teams actively seek.

If Toronto is serious about building a more dynamic offense moving forward, keeping Sandro Mamukelashvili could quietly become one of the organization’s smartest offseason decisions.

The post Toronto Must Keep Sandro Mamukelashvili for Ideal Offense appeared first on The Lead.

The 2026 NBA playoffs have taken shape, and the Cleveland Cavaliers look to right the wrongs of years past. This year, the wine and gold will face an old playoff foe in the Toronto Raptors, a team the franchise has familiarity with from its days with LeBron James leading the charge.

However, this is a different Cavaliers team, even different from the team that the Raptors swept months ago.

At the time, the Cavs had players such as Lonzo Ball and DeAndre Hunter playing key roles and contributing significant minutes. Ball even started the final matchup against the Raptors and played a total of 34 minutes. Both Ball and Hunter would later be dealt at the NBA trade deadline, paving the way for a big, bearded change to the Cavaliers’ playing structure. 

The Beard

The Cavaliers shook up the very structure of their roster at the 2026 NBA deadline, trading homegrown Darius Garland in exchange for veteran star James Harden. Since that trade, the Cavaliers changed their offense from what the Raptors were able to stifle back in November.

Since Harden’s arrival, the Cavs have updated their offense to run more isolation pick-and-roll, James Harden‘s specialty. This change has played to the Cavaliers’ favor as they are 19-7 in games where James Harden plays.

This isolation pick-and-roll has made the bigs in Cleveland better as well. Jarrett Allen had a productive stretch playing with Harden before he got hurt. The same can be said for Mobley, as more recently he exploded for 34 points against the Jazz, thanks in part to Harden’s passing ability.

Harden has fit in Cleveland like a glove. He will play a major role in why this playoff series can look completely different from the regular season one versus Toronto.

The Cavs’ Narrative

The Cavs understand the stakes of not just this series, but this playoff run as a whole. There is a narrative around this Cavaliers team, and rightfully so, that they’re soft.

People see the Cavaliers as soft because of their recent playoff track record. A first-round exit versus the Knicks in 2023, a second-round beatdown to the Celtics in 2024, and another early exit in the second round against the Pacers in 2025 all contribute to this narrative.

This is the season. This is the playoff run, for better or for worse, that the Cavaliers need to show up and break the soft narrative. That is why the team moved their chips all in on an aging star like Harden — to get over the hump and win now.

The Cavs’ Stakes

The Cavs can set the tone for their entire playoff run by taking care of a lengthy, strong Raptors team quickly, in four or five games. They have the star talent to do it with names like Donovan Mitchell and Harden. They have the personal storyline to do it. After all, Scottie Barnes beat out Evan Mobley for rookie of the year during their first seasons.

It all comes down to getting over “the hump,” but that hump has been a thorn in the side of the Koby Altman-built Cavs since the GM took over in 2017. 

Will the Cavs make a deep run this year or won’t they? That’s what the NBA playoffs are all about. If they don’t, Altman and company may very well be on the hot seat. If they do, Altman is a roster-building genius with security for many years to come.

But it all starts with their first test against the Toronto Raptors.

The post Can the Cavs Set Their Playoff Tone Against the Raptors? appeared first on The Lead.

While the Toronto Raptors have put together a solid season in the Eastern Conference, a closer look reveals a troubling trend that could define their season: Toronto struggles badly against elite teams.

Despite success against weaker opponents, the No. 5 seed Raptors have consistently failed to beat the league’s best clubs. If that pattern continues, it raises serious questions about whether this team is truly ready to contend.

Raptors’ Record Against Elite Teams Is Alarming

The Raptors hold just a 4–17 record against the NBA’s top 10 teams this season.

Conversely, Toronto has dominated inferior opponents with a 32–10 record against teams below them in the standings.

That split highlights the Raptors’ current reality: they are a competitive playoff team, but not a legitimate contender. They beat the teams that they should beat, but struggle to beat the top tier that separates good teams from great ones.

Recent Losses Show the Same Pattern

Two recent matchups against strong teams showed the Raptors’ issues closing games and sustaining offense.

In the Raptors’ recent loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves, despite Toronto shooting nearly 50 percent from the field, Minnesota pulled away with a dominant third quarter led by Anthony Edwards, exposing Toronto’s defensive lapses and inability to respond offensively when momentum shifted.

Toronto also fell to the New York Knicks recently, extending New York’s winning streak over the Raptors to 12 consecutive games dating back to 2023.

Despite Brandon Ingram scoring 31 points and RJ Barrett adding another 20 points, strong individual performances couldn’t overcome the Knicks’ balanced offense and defensive execution. 

The Raptors’ problems also stem from their inability to close out tight games.

Against New York, Toronto cut the deficit to two points halfway through the final frame before the Knicks responded with a 16-2 run to close it out.

Late-game execution has repeatedly faltered against strong teams. The issues include:

• Poor shot selection in clutch time
• Limited playmakers late in games
• Turnovers during high-pressure possessions

Against weaker teams, those mistakes often go unpunished. Against contenders, they decide games.

The Numbers Behind Toronto’s Ceiling

Team metrics explain why the Raptors struggle against elite competition.

According to season statistics, they score 113.6 points per game (bottom third of NBA), have an offensive rating of 114.5 (19th) and a defensive rating of 112.6 (6th). 

The Raptors have built a top-tier defense, but their offense remains average.

Teams like the Knicks, for example, rank near the top of the league offensively with a 119.5 offensive rating and a top-five net rating.

That difference becomes critical in playoff-level games where half-court offense decides outcomes.

Why Contenders Exploit Toronto

Several structural issues appear repeatedly against elite teams.

For one, they lack elite shot creation. Toronto relies heavily on Scottie Barnes, Ingram, and Immanuel Quickley to generate offense. Against disciplined defenses, those options can become predictable.

They also have problems scoring in the half-court. Contending teams slow games down and force half-court possessions. Toronto’s offense struggles when transition opportunities disappear.

Another key area is their lack of experience in playoff-like atmospheres. The Raptors’ top three scorers —Ingram, Barnes and Barrett, have 30 playoff games total in 22 seasons combined. Meanwhile, elite teams like the Knicks and Timberwolves feature veteran stars accustomed to playoff pressure.

If Toronto wants to compete with the league’s elite, several improvements are necessary:

• Offensive efficiency must improve — climbing from the bottom half of the league to the top 10 offensively would dramatically change Toronto’s ceiling.
• Barnes must become a true closer — elite teams have players who can take over games in crunch time.
• Secondary scoring must stabilize — Quickley, Barrett, and the supporting cast must consistently contribute when defenses collapse on Barnes.
• Late-game execution must improve — closing games against top opponents will define Toronto’s playoff readiness.

The Playoff Reality

The Raptors’ season may ultimately come down to one question:

Can they beat a contender four times in a seven-game series?

Right now, the evidence suggests they are not there yet.

Toronto has the defense, depth, and athleticism to compete with anyone on a given night. But until the offense reaches another level and late-game execution improves, the Raptors’ stock remains in the NBA’s middle tier.

A good team.

But not yet a great one.

The post Why Can’t the Toronto Raptors Beat the NBA’s Elite Teams? appeared first on The Lead.

In a statement win on the road over the Golden State Warriors, Immanuel Quickley delivered the most efficient performance of his career and one of the Raptors’ most electrifying offensive outings in recent memory.

Quickley scored 40 points and dished 10 assists on 11-of-13 shooting from the field and 7-of-8 from three-point range, leading Toronto to a 145-127 victory.

This night wasn’t just spectacular; it raised real questions about Quickley’s role. Can he be a star next to Barnes and Ingram? Does his trade value increase just as the deadline looms?

A Historic Night Worth Breaking Down

Quickley’s stat line was historic:

40 points on 11-for-13 shooting (84.6% FG)

7-for-8 from three (87.5%)

11-for-11 from the free-throw line

10 assists

The Raptors shot 21-of-34 from deep as a team that night, and had a season-high 42 assists in the win as well.

Advanced tracking suggests this is the most efficient 40-point game EVER when combining volume and shooting accuracy, a mark celebrated online by Raptors fans and national observers alike.

This was a career night in every sense. Quickley not only hit shots he normally makes but did so with elite efficiency and playmaking. His ability to space the floor and initiate offense helped Toronto overcome the absence of key rotation pieces

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What This Means for Toronto’s Offense

Shooting & Spacing Impact:

For much of this season, the Raptors have struggled from deep, often ranking near the bottom of the league in three-point percentage. In this game, the team shot a blistering 62% from long range.

Quickley’s hot hand forced defenses to guard the perimeter, which opened driving lanes for teammates like Scottie Barnes (26 points, 11 assists) and Brandon Ingram (22 points).

This combination of ball movement, spacing, and elite shooting is exactly what head coach Darko Rajaković’s “0.5 offense” aims for, high assist rates and efficient shot selection.

Assists and Playmaking:

Quickley’s 10 assists showed his dual threat — not just scoring but creating. His understanding of spacing and timing helped boost the Raptors’ assist percentage, a critical metric for offensive health. Without him facilitating, Toronto’s offense looks more stagnant.

For a guard whose historical narrative leaned toward streakiness, this masterpiece carried control and command, two traits that could reshape how the Raptors deploy him.

Quickley’s Trade Value: Is It Going Up?

Quickley’s contract is notable; he signed a five-year, $175 million extension with Toronto prior to the season. That kind of money complicates trade talks, because teams must weigh salary cap impact alongside talent acquisition.

Pros for Toronto Trading Now

The Raptors now have a bit of a sell-high opportunity. A performance this dominant, especially on efficient shooting and playmaking, could attract teams seeking a scoring point guard upgrade.

Teams that need offensive punch might view Quickley’s ceiling through performances like this and offer premium assets in return.

Cons for Trading Now

However, his cap figure is large relative to his overall production this season, which has been inconsistent prior to this game.

Raptors fans and analysts on forums caution that moving Quickley just to clear salary would be a mistake; he’s a valuable complementary piece when healthy and confident.

Value Volatility

Quickley’s trade value has been a hot topic among Raptors fans for months, as his performances fluctuate. Some see him as a strong secondary star piece worth building around; others view his pay as too rich for a “boom-or-bust” type of scorer.

This career game, especially with elite shooting and facilitation, helps his narrative but may not completely flip how front offices view his value. Consistency remains key for Immanuel Quickley.

Should Toronto Trade Him?

Here’s the crux:

Yes…If…

• A contender offers a significant upgrade, like a top 50 player.
• The Raptors decide to accelerate contention around Scottie Barnes and Brandon Ingram without paying luxury tax penalties.

No…If…

• Toronto wants to boost internal chemistry and maintain a versatile offense.
• Quickley continues producing as a scoring creator alongside Barnes and Ingram, adding playoff upside without sacrificing identity.

Given how deeply he’s now woven into Toronto’s rotation and offensive schemes, trading Quickley just after his career night might not yield maximum value unless the return is elite and future-oriented.

What to Watch Next

Consistency in his next five to ten games is paramount. If Quickley follows this career night with similar outputs, his value could rise significantly.

Team rumblings and front office chatter between now and the deadline will signal if his name has real traction, but his $175M deal impacts who can realistically acquire him.

Bottom line: Immanuel Quickley’s career night was historic and could boost his trade stock, but the Raptors should only consider moving him in a deal that improves the team’s long-term trajectory — not just to cash in on one unforgettable performance.

The post What Does Immanuel Quickley’s Historic Night Mean for Raptors? appeared first on The Lead.

The iconic Kyle L-L-L-L-Lowry bellow reverberated throughout Scotiabank Arena to a roaring crowd who got their wish. Beloved former Raptor, Kyle Lowry, was checking into an East Coast clash that was all but over.

With 1:57 remaining in the game, Lowry’s 76ers were up 16, with Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey headed for the bench. Chants of “We Want Lowry” rained down, giving Sixers coach Nick Nurse no choice but to insert his 20-year NBA veteran. 

The screens in the hallways of the arena typically hold spots for advertisements, except this time, they were plastered with pictures of Lowry. 

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The night was a walk down memory lane from the moment he set foot in Scotiabank. But the buildup of his potential last game in the city he called home for nine seasons almost didn’t happen in the first place.  

How Kyle Lowry Became a Raptor

When a 26-year-old Kyle Lowry landed in a new country, he couldn’t have imagined what Canada would mean to him. He’d spent two and a half years in Memphis coming off the bench and just over three seasons in Houston.  

Though he continued to develop his skills to blossom into a starter in Houston, Lowry only made the playoffs once with them — in 2009. Rumors of dissension between him and then-coach of the Rockets, Kevin McHale, coupled with Goran Dragic stepping up in Lowry’s injury absences, resulted in the team moving on from him. 

Meanwhile, in Toronto, former GM Bryan Colangelo was attempting to recruit Hall of Famer Steve Nash. After Nash chose to team up with Kobe Bryant in Los Angeles, the Raptors sought out Lowry.

Lowry was acquired by the Raptors in July of 2012. 

Team Uncertainties

The season after Lowry was dealt to Toronto, 2013-2014, the team started 6-12. Freshly hired Team President Masai Ujiri felt the team needed a rebuild and was looking to make several moves. Ujiri hoped Lowry, along with Rudy Gay and DeMar DeRozan, could form a star trio to lead the Raptors to relevance; however, they had struggled. 

Rudy Gay was subsequently traded that December, with Lowry slated to be next. Ujiri was reportedly in talks with several teams to trade his point guard, including the Lakers, Heat, and Knicks. As talks escalated with New York, many began assuming it was a done deal – even Lowry himself.

“I didn’t think I was getting traded anywhere besides the Knicks,” Lowry said. “I honestly thought that was going to happen. I had two duffle bags ready to go.”

Knicks owner James Dolan ultimately backed out of the deal at the last minute, leaving the Raptors stuck with Lowry. The story goes that Dolan grew hesitant to engage in business with Ujiri. Dolan had been scolded in the past for making deals with Ujiri that ended poorly for the Knicks. Additionally, the Knicks’ owner refused to send the players needed to make the deal work. 

Head coach at the time, Dwyane Casey, said: “Once he saw that he wasn’t going to be traded, he took it as a personal challenge as far as the team and everything to make sure he put it on his back.”

That he did. Lowry began to grow his chemistry with DeRozan, eventually becoming All-Star backcourt mates. The two turned their team’s season around that year, clinching a postseason berth and taking the Kevin Garnett-led Nets to a grueling seven-game series. 

An Unlikely Friendship

The relationships Lowry formed along his journey left a lasting impression on those around him. Though Lowry is now playing for the City of Brotherly Love, he experienced that same love with DeRozan during their time together. 

Initially, however, Lowry and DeRozan’s relationship was rocky when they first joined forces. As DeRozan described in his memoir, “Above the Noise: My Story of Chasing Calm,” the two weren’t immediately best friends. 

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“He’d come and go and never really seemed a part of the team,” DeRozan recalled of his first impression of Lowry. “He walked around the facility in a hoodie with the hood pulled up over his head and always seemed short-tempered with everybody,” (pg. 104). 

Lowry was a vocal leader unafraid to express how he felt; DeRozan was reserved and kept to himself. 

DeRozan grew to understand that he and Lowry had much more in common than either thought; they just went about their business differently. Both came from struggling households in rough neighborhoods. Both fought against becoming a product of their environment to create a better life for themselves.

The turning point in their relationship came after Game 7 of the 2014 first-round playoff series against the Nets. The game came down to the wire, and the Raptors had the ball with 6.2 seconds and a chance to take the lead. Lowry had a potential game-winner blocked by Paul Pierce, resulting in a devastating one-point loss for the Raptors. 

In that moment, DeRozan reached down to console Lowry, who had dropped to the floor in pain-staking disbelief. 

“I don’t care if you made that shot or if you missed,” DeRozan reassured, “I’m riding with you no matter what,” (pg. 113). 

More Than Just a Game

Their connection strengthened throughout the years, with Kyle Lowry’s loyalty and support providing comfort for DeRozan, especially as he was battling personal issues behind the scenes. 

Once DeRozan’s dad fell ill during the 2017-18 season, it was Lowry who became his confidant. Their lockers were adjacent to each other, and only he knew the true extent of his condition.  

“I felt I could trust Kyle with anything,” DeRozan said (pg. 125). 

“When I was going through my worst, he would lean into my locker stall before games, when the rest of our teammates were talking among themselves, and look me in the eyes, ‘All right, D, let’s go to our happy place’,” (pg. 126).  

“When games were over, he’d put an arm around me on our way back to the locker room and say, ‘Now back to reality. You got this’,” (pg. 126).

His pregame and postgame talks with Lowry allowed him to open up about his feelings — something that he’d spent decades afraid to do. For DeRozan, Lowry was a safe space. He allowed him to be vulnerable and tear down the facade that so many professional athletes hide behind.  

Lowry Set the Foundation in Toronto

The end of Lowry’s time with the Raptors in 2021 was an amicable parting of ways. The team was revamping and going younger. An aging Lowry was nearing the end of his prime, looking for a last opportunity to win another title. 

His stops in Miami, Philadelphia, and Toronto saw him become a mentor to the teams’ young players.

His young protege in Toronto, Fred VanVleet, calls Lowry “a big brother” for helping him in basketball and in life. VanVleet spent years soaking up knowledge from his vet as he emerged from an undrafted guard to an NBA starter.

Lowry’s work ethic set the standard for his up-and-coming teammates. They were always paying attention to how he went about his business. 

“I remember in training camp, I would show up two hours early to practice, and he would already be there, done with his workout,” VanVleet described of Lowry’s routine. 

“I learned a lot from Kyle. Not really about my game, but how to move — business things, family things, how to work out, your routine, how to recover.”

To this day, the two stay in touch, texting each other throughout the week. 

Kyle Lowry’s Role as a Mentor

Kyle Lowry brought those same leadership qualities with him to Philadelphia. Tyrese Maxey specifically has praised him for always being in his corner. Like with Lowry’s Raptors teammates, his support and care extend far beyond basketball for Maxey. Despite Maxey facing off against the 39-year-old just once while he was a Raptor, he is fully aware of the love Toronto has for him.

“He’s a legend. He’s legendary,” Maxey said. “What he’s done for this organization, franchise, whole country, is bigger than basketball.”

When asked what he learned from Lowry, he simply responded: “Literally everything. I take so much from Kyle every single day.”

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The bond the two have is why he, along with the rest of the 76ers’ players, focused on putting the game away as early as possible.

Lowry hasn’t confirmed whether or not this season will be his last, but the end is getting closer.

Just two months shy of his 40th birthday, the Philadelphia native has seen a drastic dip in playing time over the last two seasons. Lowry has logged minutes in only 41 games since the beginning of the 2024-25 season. His body isn’t holding up as it used to.

The best shot Lowry had at seeing the floor was if the game was put away, which Maxey tried hard to do. He wanted his mentor to get one last ovation (possibly) from the fans who watched him grow up. The fans that were there through the highs and lows, and witnessed him hoist the Larry O’Brien trophy. 

Maxey’s bloom into stardom has meant that Lowry can take a backseat, leaning into more of a leadership role. Still, if Maxey ever needs anything, he knows Lowry is there for him.

Forging a Lasting Legacy

At this point, the legacy of Kyle Lowry up North is one that is familiar. He is a multi-time All-Star, Olympic Gold Medalist, and NBA Champion. But what means the most to Raptors fans is that he chose to stay when the going got tough. Lowry may not have been drafted to the Raptors, but it almost feels like he was. He loved Toronto like it was his home.

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 Because of the deep ties he has with the city, he intends on retiring a Raptor. He has stated on numerous occasions his plan to sign a one-day contract with the team before leaving basketball.

Fans had seen the same story too many times. They’d watched players like Vince Carter, Tracy McGrady, and Chris Bosh walk out the door, leaving nothing but broken hope to a fanbase aching to have a player to call theirs. Someone who was along for the ups and downs, and was as committed to them as they were committed to him. They finally got that player.

What they didn’t know was that he would be one narrowly missed trade away from never becoming theirs in the first place.

The post Kyle Lowry’s Path to Toronto Was Unexpected, but Meant to Be appeared first on The Lead.

One of the most anticipated dates on the NBA calendar every year is the February trade deadline.

Executives, media members, and fans alike eagerly anticipate the drama and unpredictability the trade deadline brings. The shockwaves from the Luka Dončić trade are still rippling through the league and will continue to shape how front offices and fans approach the deadline moving forward.

This year’s deadline once again promises intrigue, with several teams potentially entering rebuilds after underperforming in a league with parity.

What should you look for in the next couple of months leading up to the deadline? All-Star and superstar players get the most attention at the trade deadline, and for good reason, but it is also important to account for the smaller deals that happen more frequently. The details of the salary cap will play a massive role at every trade deadline.

Teams Looking to Avoid the Luxury Tax

Depending on the market, teams may not want to pay the luxury tax, especially if they are not winning. Teams could also choose to get out of the tax if they are barely over the line, since it would not take much to get under.

According to Spotrac, the luxury tax teams this year are the Celtics, Cavaliers, Mavericks, Nuggets, Warriors, Rockets, Clippers, Lakers, Timberwolves, Knicks, Magic, Sixers, and Raptors.

Out of these thirteen teams, six are at least in the first apron, making it nearly impossible to get below the luxury tax. This leaves the Clippers, Nuggets, Rockets, Lakers, Magic, Sixers, and Raptors as the teams that can realistically get out of the luxury tax through trades.

The most practical teams to get out of the luxury tax are the Clippers, Raptors, and Sixers because they are closer to the tax line and can get under it without sacrificing their main core. The Clippers are also not having a good year, and the Sixers and Raptors, while possible playoff teams, are unlikely to find themselves in title contention.

Outlook on the Toronto Raptors

The Raptors are currently around $2 million above the luxury tax.

While they are a solid team, they are not a title contender, so paying the tax does not make much sense. Toronto could avoid the tax and still improve. Some salaries they could move include RJ Barrett’s $27 million cap hit, along with Gradey Dick and Ochai Agbaji, who are both in the $5 million range.

According to Mike Scotto of HoopsHype, the Raptors are in search of a center and have unsuccessfully discussed a trade for Nick Richards. Jakob Poeltl was recently extended this offseason, and the big man has not played well. His contract also looks difficult to move unless he is included in a larger package for a player like Anthony Davis or Domantas Sabonis.

Outlook on the Philadelphia 76ers

The Sixers sit around $4 million over the luxury tax.

President of Basketball Operations Daryl Morey is experienced in navigating the luxury tax in Philadelphia. After a rough season that landed the Sixers in the lottery, Morey cut costs by trading KJ Martin and Caleb Martin last season. Philadelphia could execute a similar move by dealing Kelly Oubre Jr., Andre Drummond, or Quentin Grimes, all of whom carry cap hits above $5 million.

Outlook on the Los Angeles Clippers

Los Angeles is off to a rough start, but a small winning streak and a massive fifty-five-point performance from Kawhi Leonard have the Clippers eyeing a comeback into the playoff picture.

The Clippers sit $6.7 million above the luxury tax. If they continue winning, cutting salaries may not be necessary, as they would need these players to compete. If they decide to reduce costs, moving Derrick Jones Jr., Kris Dunn, or Brook Lopez would help them get under the luxury tax.

Los Angeles could also explore a James Harden trade, as reports suggest there are multiple teams interested. The Clippers will need to evaluate their level of competitiveness leading up to the deadline. If they do not see themselves as a playoff contender, they should consider selling, even with no control of their first-round pick.

Trade Routes Run Through Milwaukee

The biggest name every team is monitoring is Giannis Antetokounmpo.

Giannis dealt with a calf injury for most of December. Without him, the Bucks finished 2025 under .500.

Milwaukee does not have a clear second option to pair with Giannis. Myles Turner has not lived up to expectations as a secondary scorer and impact player. Kevin Porter Jr. and Ryan Rollins have shown significant improvement, but it has not been enough.

According to multiple sources, the Bucks want to keep Giannis and want to add to their roster. They have targeted Zach LaVine, Jerami Grant, and Malik Monk. However, it is unlikely that any of those moves would dramatically change Milwaukee’s outlook. If the Bucks cannot find a way to keep Giannis happy, which ultimately comes down to winning, a split feels inevitable.

Giannis has a contract decision to make in the 2026 offseason. He can sign a three-year extension on top of the two years remaining on his deal. If he chooses not to extend, it would be the clearest signal yet that he prefers to leave.

The post Which Teams Will Determine NBA Trade Deadline’s Direction? appeared first on The Lead.

The Toronto Raptors face a familiar crossroads: how to climb back into playoff relevance without intentionally gutting the roster to lose games and chase a top draft pick.

The Raptors have leaned on an unconventional playbook, one that mixes targeted trades, internal development via Raptors 905, and selective veteran additions. The club believes its approach can return the Raptors to contention faster and with less franchise damage than a full teardown.

Below is a detailed look at how Toronto is trying to thread that needle, and how it compares with classic “tear-it-down” rebuilds such as Oklahoma City and Houston.

The Core Idea — Develop Talent, Keep Competing

Rather than gut the roster for lottery odds, Toronto has emphasized player development and controlled asset management. The organization keeps young players in the rotation, uses its G League affiliate as an extension of the NBA staff, and adds veteran pieces when they fit, avoiding long multi-year selloffs that leave fans watching losses for years.

Their philosophy depends on two pillars: a functioning development pipeline and front-office patience to let prospects grow. Evidence of the approach, and why the team favors it, appears repeatedly in reporting on the Raptors’ use of Raptors 905 and public comments from team leadership. An article from 2019 titled “The Raptors are using their G League team like a European soccer club, and it’s working” describes it perfectly.

Raptors 905 — The Organization’s Laboratory

Toronto uses Raptors 905 as more than a place to stash fringe NBA players. The G League team operates like a true secondary squad, where prospects get defined roles, more minutes, and repeatable coaching plans designed to address specific weaknesses (shooting mechanics, pick-and-roll reads, on-ball defense).

Their methods produced core contributors for Toronto’s 2019 title team, including Pascal Siakam, Fred VanVleet and Norman Powell, and continue to supply rotation players today. Recent assignments (for development rather than punishment) and structured minutes show the front office’s continued faith in the 905 model. 

Practical examples this cycle include Gradey Dick, Ja’Kobe Walter, and Jamal Shead’s G-League stints, which helped the young prospects build confidence through late-season reps and minutes.

Raptors media members have talked about Gradey Dick‘s growth during his sophomore season, showing how the Raptors’ development pipeline is playing a huge role in his career.. 

Targeted Asset Moves, Not Wholesale

Toronto’s roster moves have avoided mass asset dumping.

Instead, the club has pursued targeted trades that try to upgrade the roster without mortgaging the long term. We saw that just last deadline when the Raptors acquired Brandon Ingram for quite the bargain. Front-office decisions have balanced short-term competitiveness and longer-term control of picks and young players.

Recent coverage also indicates internal continuity in basketball ops, as GM Bobby Webster has taken on expanded duties — a sign the organization wants one coherent long-term plan rather than repeated directional shifts. 

That differs from classic teardown examples, where teams intentionally clear salary and playing time to accumulate draft assets. Toronto’s approach keeps pieces who can help now while giving prospects time to develop into larger roles.

Why Full Teardowns Work — and the Costs

Teams that endure deep rebuilds typically accept several losing seasons to accumulate draft capital, then spend those picks (and cap space) to assemble stars.

The Thunder are the best example of this method.

Oklahoma City’s post-Paul George strategy provided a template; the Thunder leveraged multiple future firsts and draft flexibility to acquire young building blocks (including the Shai Gilgeous-Alexander era path) and eventually convert those assets into a legitimate contender. The Thunder’s model shows how a high inventory of picks and draft flexibility can produce a rapid ascendancy once the right pieces emerge. 

Why Toronto Took the Other Road

Full teardowns have clear upside but also clear costs: prolonged losing, development in an intentionally bleak environment, and uncertainty about draft outcomes. Toronto’s hybrid plan reduces those costs.

Keeping competitive players on the roster preserves culture and development habits and makes it easier to attract complementary veterans who keep fans engaged. It also reduces the risk of draft busts derailing a multi-year plan.

That said, the hybrid approach requires excellent scouting, a high-functioning G League program (Toronto 905 has been perfect), and disciplined contract management. Missed evaluations (injuries, players who plateau) can leave a middling roster stuck on the precipice of contention.

Injuries and Youth

The Raptors’ strategy still faces headwinds. Rookie center Ulrich Chomche suffered a season-ending MCL injury after promising 905 minutes, a setback for Toronto’s depth and a reminder that development paths are fragile.

Reuters and other outlets reported Chomche’s injury and the timeline for his rehab, which pushed more responsibility onto other young wings and rotation players. 

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At the same time, Gradey Dick’s improvement into a reliable scoring option — punctuated by G League work and rising-stars recognition — shows the upside when the system works. Those mixed signals encapsulate the hybrid strategy’s risk/reward profile: success means under-the-radar contributors emerge; failure means the team lacks the elite draft assets to pivot quickly. 

What to Watch This Offseason and Next Year

Bobby Webster’s consolidation of duties suggests Toronto wants a consistent plan; any public shifts in personnel or strategy would signal a move toward a deeper teardown. 

The team must also show it can upgrade without trading away its core. Any high-priced, long-term swap of picks for veterans would indicate a different strategy than what they’ve been sticking with recently.

Injury recoveries and two-way development will continue to be critical. The timeline for Chomche and the growth of guys like Dick or Walter will affect Toronto’s competitive ceiling. 

Bottom Line

Toronto’s alternative to tanking is deliberate and identity-driven. They use Raptors 905 as a development engine, make targeted trades, and keep a contending culture intact.

That path avoids the fan-unfriendly stretch of multi-year losing and has preserved the chance to surprise in a wide-open Eastern Conference. The tradeoff is less draft capital and higher reliance on scouting and coaching.

If the 905 keeps producing rotation pieces and the front office continues to find value without surrendering the future, Toronto’s hybrid rebuild could be a sustainable way back to contention, and a model other mid-market teams might study.

The post The Toronto Raptors Have Taken an Alternate Path to Contention appeared first on The Lead.

It seems that neither the superstar nor the owner of the Clippers planted any trees with Aspiration.

What they are undoubtedly planting is a bad reputation for the team and a possible historic penalty. According to Adam Silver, the burden of proof falls on the shoulders of the NBA in this case, meaning there needs to be substantial evidence found by the league’s investigator in order to assert that the Clippers were under any wrongdoing.

However, there is increasing evidence pointing to fraud, and it seems that the Kawhi Leonard Aspiration scandal is the reality.

The Ballmer, Leonard, and Clippers fraud case is getting more and more complicated.

Kawhi’s contract and his shares with Aspiration

In the first podcast of “Pablo Torre Finds Out,” Pablo Torre already demonstrated the existence of a $28 million contract between Aspiration and Leonard. This contract was in exchange for nothing, that is, a “no-show” job.

Along with this contract came Steve Ballmer’s $50 million investment in the green company. There was a discrepancy between Leonard’s contract and the Clippers magnate’s alleged investment. This suggested that Ballmer may have actually invested in the company. Thus, it was not a ploy to circumvent the NBA’s salary cap.

However, it has also been discovered that Aspiration gave Leonard shares in its company. The value of these? $20 million. Added to the $28 million from the contract, this comes to a total of $48 million, a figure that aligns almost perfectly with Ballmer’s investment.

Thanks to another episode of Pablo Torre’s podcast, it was discovered that Aspiration at one point missed a $1.75 million payment to Leonard. A minority owner of the Clippers invested $1.99 million, and Leonard then received his payment.

Who was this minority owner? Dennis Wong, Ballmer’s college roommate and the Clippers’ vice president.

As if all this weren’t enough, Mike Vorkunov also revealed in The Athletic that, three months later, according to court documents from a civil lawsuit, Ballmer made another investment in the company, just short of $10 million. Aspiration had been experiencing financial difficulties, with only $12.2 million in cash as of Feb. 17, 2023, and weekly expenses of more than $2 million. The Clippers declined to comment on the March 2023 investment.

Was Ballmer’s Interview Transparency or Damage Control?

Following the revelations in the first podcast and the emergence of suspicions, Ballmer made statements on ESPN in an interview with Ramona Shelbourne. During this interview, he said he wants the league to investigate: “The salary cap rules are important, and we have nothing to hide.”

The tycoon insists that he only introduced Leonard to the company, something he says is allowed under the rules. Ballmer also said he felt cheated by Aspiration. “They deceived me, they committed fraud. I invested $50 million, and I’m embarrassed that I didn’t see it coming.”

Regarding Leonard’s deal with Aspiration, Ballmer says he didn’t even know the details until it was already closed. In the interview, Ballmer acknowledged feeling “anger and sadness” for his employees and fans. He emphasizes that Leonard and his entourage “have always followed the rules.”

The problem with this plot is all the questions that still exist, which seem to multiply as the days go by, and the few answers that are given.

Uncle Dennis and a Pattern Going Back to Toronto

Another name that has been mentioned frequently throughout this whole affair is Uncle Dennis. Uncle Dennis is Dennis Robertson, Leonard’s uncle and advisor. Most people point to him as the main culprit of the scandal, assuming the fraud is real.

Bill Simmons, sports journalist and founder and CEO of the sports and pop culture website The Ringer, suggests that Kawhi may not even have known anything about this and that it was all Dennis’s work behind the scenes, with Dennis, logically, being the one who benefited.

But why all this doubt about Uncle Dennis? Why would Kawhi’s uncle be suspected of doing this, with people suggesting that he was the main architect?

Well, Uncle Dennis already has several red flags in his history. In 2019, during negotiations with the Raptors, his name came up for a reason: Robertson allegedly demanded benefits beyond the usual— things that teams rarely agree to give— such as equity, use of a private jet, luxury housing, and guaranteed sponsorships without Kawhi having to do anything in return, including:

• He asked for part ownership of franchises such as the Toronto Maple Leafs.
• He demanded $10 million a year for sponsorship deals “with no promotional obligations,” just to cash in on the name.
• A private jet always available, a house, and other personal benefits that violate CBA standards.

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Adding all this to the Aspiration deal (28M + stock + payments with no apparent return), it’s no longer just suspicion— it’s a pattern.

Kawhi’s Silence and That of His Entourage Casts Doubt

It is not unusual for Leonard to remain silent. In this case, neither Kawhi nor his entourage have said anything about the accusations, and he has been seen at public events such as the US Open.

Kawhi’s silence is something fans are used to. However, in this case, not commenting on the accusations is a problem.

Silence gives consent. The fact that Kawhi and those around him, such as his uncle, who may also be involved, are increasing the doubts in a case that already raises too many questions and unknowns is a bad look.

Kawhi’s time with the Clippers has given his fans many headaches, and this case is the most serious one yet.

After Wong’s announcement, some fans began to investigate how many games Kawhi played before receiving payment, and it is not surprising that he played few. What is surprising is that the fans themselves have begun to wonder if perhaps Leonard did not play because he did not receive payment. The lack of defense by Leonard and his entourage in the face of the accusations not only creates suspicion, but also raises doubts about how committed the superstar is to the team.

Steve Ballmer and the Richest and Ideal Owner Factor

The most important factor in this case is that Ballmer is the richest owner in the league by a long shot. Ballmer has a net worth of $153.9 billion, according to Forbes. This makes him by far the richest owner in the league.

The second richest owner in the league is Miriam Adelson, of the Adelson family. She has a net worth of $36.3 billion, according to Forbes. The difference between Ballmer and the rest of the owners is staggering.

Even with the numbers, it’s hard to understand the difference between the fortunes. Ignore, for a moment, the fact that Ballmer could buy all the franchises in the league without any problem. A normal, working person is closer to reaching the Adelson family’s fortune than the Adelson family is to reaching Ballmer’s fortune.

If Ballmer’s immeasurable fortune weren’t enough reason for the league to want to protect him, there’s also the fact that Ballmer is the ideal owner for Adam Silver. If Ballmer is known for anything in the league, besides his fortune, it’s for his craziness, and for being a very involved owner with his team.

Since acquiring the Clippers, Ballmer has spent a lot on his franchise. The Intuit Dome is the most expensive stadium in the league. It features the Wall, a special section for the team’s biggest fans. Marketing, advertising, and the best for his team. Ballmer spares no expense with the Clippers. That not only benefits the Clippers and their fans, but also the NBA and Adam Silver. This is another reason why the league will protect Ballmer at all costs.

Media Spin and the Soft-Cover Narrative

There’s plenty of reason to believe that the league wants to protect Ballmer.

First, there’s the interview with Ramona. In it, Steve Ballmer plays a great role, claiming that he is another victim of Aspiration and that he was defrauded. It is also worth noting that ESPN has not yet been as critical of the situation. In fact, it has been quite the opposite.

Ramona Shelburne explained that beyond Aspiration’s reported $350 million deal with the Clippers, the company also tried to secure naming rights for what became the Intuit Dome — bidding nearly double Intuit’s $550 million offer.

“That gives you an indication of the kind of money [Aspiration] was throwing around back in those days.”

Another interesting fact is the reports of the cases on the ESPN website. The ESPN article on the Kawhi Leonard case is 877 words long. Their article on ESPN’s interview with Steve Ballmer is 1082 words long.

There’s a clear imbalance in the shine ESPN has given to Ballmer so far compared to the heat they’re putting on Leonard and the Clippers’ organizations.

Adam Silver and the NBA’s Response

With all this information, the league and Adam Silver have taken a clear stance. They are going to protect Steve Ballmer.

It is true that the league has hired an outside law firm to investigate the case, but Silver and many reporters have already stated that “solid” evidence of fraud is needed. What Silver means by this is that if he does not find a letter written and signed by Ballmer confirming everything, he will not take action, or at least not serious action.

There has also been a league meeting with the owners to discuss the case, but it did not accomplish much. Silver went to the media assuring them that he was not aware of the existence of Aspiration. “When the podcast came out, frankly, I had never heard the name Aspiration. No agreement with Kawhi, no agreement with the Clippers, it was all new.”

“We quickly realized that this needs to be investigated by someone outside the NBA.”

The worst part is that it’s probably false. The NBA needs approval for certain commercial agreements with franchises. One for $330 million, that was going to be the Clippers’ patch at the time, 100% had to have reached the New York offices.

The Dichotomy of the Ballmer, Kawhi, and Clippers Fraud Case

Given all this information — all the reports and investigations that come out about the case every day; the silence of Kawhi and his entourage since day one; the silence of the Clippers and Ballmer with the new evidence; the whitewashing of the league and some media outlets regarding the case — a dichotomy presents itself.

There are two options that will shape the future of the league with this case. The choice will be made by Silver.

The first option would be for the league to sanction Ballmer and the Clippers with the largest penalty in league history. This would lead to a tightening of the league’s financial rules, a review of the other franchises, and greater oversight by the league.

But there is another option, which seems to be the one that will be taken based on the steps being taken by the league and Silver. Look the other way, protect Ballmer, and pretend nothing happened.

This is a test for the league and for the rules. If the league continues down this path, the rules are meaningless. The franchises will lose value. If the CBA doesn’t matter, nothing does. If owners can break the rules at will to sign and attract better players, the league will become monopolized. It will lose its essence, and whoever has the most money will always win. It will be the end of the league and justice in exchange for the same old thing: the power of money.

The post Kawhi Leonard Aspiration Scandal Tests NBA’s Integrity appeared first on The Lead.