NBA analyst highlights the brilliance of LeBron James and Stephen Curry amidst Kawhi Leonard's 'no-show' controversy

The NBA is grappling with the debate over players’ off-court responsibilities in the controversy involving Kawhi Leonard. Reports allege that the LA Clippers and owner Steve Ballmer arranged a $28 million “no-show job” for Leonard.

Leonard, widely regarded as one of the premier talents, has faced criticism for his limited engagement in promotional activities, in contrast to peers like LeBron James and Stephen Curry.LeBron James and Stephen Curry's names get dragged in the Kawhi Leonard controversyESPN’s Stephen A. Smith addressed this on a recent broadcast, pointing out Leonard’s reserved nature. Smith referenced a New Balance commercial where Leonard remained silent, emphasizing that NBA contracts involve more than just playing basketball.

“You get paid to promote the brand, the product, and the league,” Smith said, praising James and Curry for embracing media obligations and fan engagement while noting Leonard’s reluctance to do so.

Legal documents reveal that Leonard’s deal with Aspiration required him to remain a Clipper to receive payments but allowed him to opt out of any tasks at his discretion. Former Aspiration employees suggested the arrangement may have been a creative workaround to skirt NBA salary cap rules, prompting the league to launch an investigation following a report by Pablo Torre.

While Leonard’s on-court excellence is undeniable, his apparent sidestepping of these duties has drawn scrutiny.

In contrast, James and Curry exemplify the modern NBA star, balancing elite performance with robust off-court contributions to their teams and the league’s brand.What implications does the LeonardKawhi bring?The controversy stems from a deal that was between Leonard’s KL2 Aspire, LLC, and Ballmer’s now-defunct tree-planting company, Aspiration.

This arrangement, which allowed Leonard to receive payments without performing significant duties, has sparked concerns about NBA salary cap compliance and the expectations placed on superstars beyond their on-court performance. NBA executives warn of severe consequences if allegations against Kawhi Leonard and the LA Clippers are proven true. When comparing this situation to the Minnesota Timberwolves’ 1999 Joe Smith salary cap scandal, which cost the team five first-round draft picks, a voided contract, and executive suspensions.An Eastern Conference executive called it “a huge deal,” while a Western Conference GM predicted the NBA’s strong disapproval. The Clippers deny wrongdoing, stating they ended ties with Aspiration in 2022–23 after the company defaulted and claiming ignorance of any misconduct until a government probe began. Beyond fines or lost draft picks, punishment could limit the Clippers’ ability to sign or trade for top talent and may lead to suspensions for front-office staff.

The league might also impose stricter compliance rules for contracts involving external entities.Also read: NBA set to investigate Kawhi Leonard's Los Angeles Clippers deal after claims of salary cap circumvention.