Clippers fined $30 million as owner Steve Ballmer is suspended for a year following NBA investigation on behind-the-curtain deal

The NBA has fined the LA Clippers $30 million and suspended owner Steve Ballmer for one year. This decision follows a near-year-long investigation into an alleged circumvention of league rules. The scandal involves a behind-the-curtain deal regarding Kawhi Leonard. The investigation was concluded after bombshell text messages were revealed, proving the salary cap circumvention. This heavy blow to the franchise and its billionaire owner stems from the documented evidence of the illegal agreement.