While Kawhi Leonard is currently leading the Toronto Raptors against the Golden State Warriors in the NBA Finals, the Los Angeles Clippers appear to have big plans for the All-Star forward as he enters the upcoming postseason as an unrestricted free agent.
According to a report by the New York Times, the Clippers have quietly looked into purchasing the portion of the rights to Leonard’s "Klaw" logo that is currently still owned by Nike. Leonard was signed to Jordan Brand prior to inking a multiyear deal with New Balance in November.
The move is believed to be an attempt to woo Leonard to sign with the Los Angeles team in the upcoming free agency period—a rumor that has been gaining traction in the sports world. It's also a move that would likely be against the league's salary cap rules. The Clippers have already been hit with a $50,000 fine for violating the NBA's anti-tampering rule after head coach Doc Rivers recently compared Leonard to Michael Jordan.
Representatives from the Clippers, New Balance, and Nike did not yet return our request for comment. Game 2 of the 2018-19 NBA Finals will tip off this Sunday at 8 pm ET, with free agency beginning on June 30.
