By Michael Hanich,Yardbarker
Copyright yardbarker
While the Clippers look solid on the court, there is noise off the court over the potential pay violation involving Leonard and owner Steve Ballmer. The NBA is currently investigating the claims of Leonard getting paid outside of the salary cap and will take their time reviewing the facts as the number seems to be overexhausted in its initial report.
Among the biggest noise the Clippers are experiencing with Leonard is the reported demands that Leonard’s camp, especially his uncle Dennis, has insisted on. Dennis Robertson made the demands to the Clippers, the Los Angeles Lakers and the Toronto Raptors during Leonard’s free agent process. Robertson requested that Leonard remain living in San Diego, access to a private plane to and from games and practices, limited media accessibility and guaranteed off-court endorsement income. Robertson also requested a house for himself and some other accommodations.
All three teams agreed to most of these demands, but Leonard insisted on moving to Los Angeles to be closer to the Clippers organization. While quiet, Leonard has been open to being the face of the franchise. He even attempted to take more reins of the team over consistently outspoken Paul George when he played for the Clippers from 2019 to 2024.
Reports released show current team members requesting that Balmer and the Clippers trade Leonard to rid themselves of the headache that he and his camp created. Among these reports are current members of the Clippers organization who are maintaining their status to remain anonymous.
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