Silver launches a formal NBA probe into a Clippers-Aspiration sponsorship tied to Kawhi Leonard’s 2021 deal, raising the specter of salary-cap circumvention and penalties that could include fines or draft-pick forfeitures. The saga intertwines Ballmer’s wealth, Leonard’s no-show clause, and a high-stakes off-court arrangement, with the potential to reshape cap rules and team-building in LA.

Fantasy managers should monitor the investigation’s outcomes, as any cap adjustments or sanctions could ripple through Clippers’ rotation and budget, affecting player usage and value. The story underscores how off-court deals can influence on-court value in a league where cap discipline and star salaries drive roster strategy.