Kawhi Back in Toronto? Clippers Punished | Toronto Raptors News

The NBA just dropped a seismic punishment on the LA Clippers and Kawhi Leonard—Steve Ballmer’s suspended for a year and fined $30 million, while the Clippers lose first-round picks for five years. Kawhi faces a $700K fine but avoids suspension, which is huge news for the Toronto Raptors. With Kawhi still available for 2026-27, Toronto can move forward with plans to bring him back via a potential trade involving Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, and draft assets. The Clippers’ depleted draft capital may force them to take on tough contracts like Jakob Poeltl’s, creating a possible lifeline for Toronto. Analysts suggest Ballmer could still approve deals that include Toronto’s first-round pick in exchange for Poeltl, potentially landing Rui Hachimura and Max Strus to boost Toronto’s shooting. This flexibility gives the Raptors breathing room as they build around Kawhi and Barnes. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/e60716a4232166f2