The Los Angeles Clippers have begun a major rebuild following Kawhi Leonard’s controversial departure. Leonard was finally traded to the Toronto Raptors for Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick, and two first-round picks earlier this week.
The trade was delayed for several weeks while the NBA investigated the Clippers over salary cap circumvention, but the matter has now been resolved. The Clippers have forfeited five draft picks, while owner Steve Ballmer has been suspended for one year.
The Clippers now face a long road back to contention following the NBA’s sanctions and Leonard’s exit. The good news in this precarious situation is that they already have some talented players on the roster heading into the 2026-27 season.