Future of Kawhi Leonard with Clippers in question?

The Clippers keep saying there’s nothing unusual about Kawhi Leonard’s $28 million endorsement deal with Aspiration. The problem? Every new report makes it look more unusual.

From alleged “no-show” payments, to side stock agreements, to the NBA digging into whether it all amounted to salary-cap circumvention, the controversy just won’t go away.

That alone has rival execs wondering about Leonard’s future in Los Angeles. Factor in his long injury history and the fact he’ll turn 34 this season, and you can see why some around the league are speculating about a potential trade.

“Everything seems like it’s on shaky ground over there,” one opposing executive told Hoops Wire. “You can’t be sure what the league will do, and you can’t be sure Leonard will hold up physically. That’s a tough combo.”

Added another: “The Clippers are built around him, but if the league hits them hard, they may have to make a choice.”

For now, the Clippers are denying any wrongdoing and are expected to keep Leonard. But if penalties come down, or if the team suddenly finds itself squeezed under the cap, there’s at least a chance they could look to move on.

Leonard has two years left on his deal. As always, we’ll keep an eye on it.

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