The Los Angeles Clippers’ trade involving James Harden and Ivica Zubac has raised questions.
They were performing well this season, and with no first-round pick to benefit from, there was little reason to lose intentionally.
With ongoing investigations into Kawhi Leonard and their alleged salary cap violations, scrutiny on Steve Ballmer’s team may increase.
Investigative journalist Pablo Torre, who has covered this story extensively in his podcast “Pablo Torre Finds Out,” stated that the federal government is aware of possible criminal activities within Aspiration.
The federal government may know about the Clippers’ salary cap violations
Torre mentioned that a whistleblower from within Aspiration has alerted the federal government about irregularities, suggesting there could be more evidence of this side deal.
“If this whistleblower exists and mentioned Steve Ballmer and salary cap violations, that would be significant,” Torre said.
If the Clippers are found responsible, the league might have to impose fines, take away several draft picks, and could even void Leonard’s contract.
Ballmer and the Clippers continue to deny any wrongdoing, but Torre’s extensive coverage raises valid questions about potential misconduct.
This situation could become the biggest scandal during Adam Silver’s time as commissioner, especially given the recent gambling issues in the league.