The Los Angeles Clippers operated under the belief that the NBA's ongoing investigation into alleged cap impropriety involving Kawhi Leonard and business sponsor Aspiration would not affect the completion of his trade. That impression shaped weeks of trade discussions before the Clippers agreed to terms with the Toronto Raptors.

The league later informed the Raptors that any sanctions tied to Leonard personally would fall solely on them, separate from any penalties the Clippers may still face.

Possible sanctions against Leonard could include a suspension or, in a worst-case scenario, voiding the remaining $50.3 million on his contract.

One source briefed on the process said Toronto had an understanding of the potential risk attached to acquiring Leonard before trade terms were verbally agreed. Toronto declined to comment beyond its Thursday statement when asked to respond Friday.

The proposed deal would send Brandon Ingram, Gradey Dick and draft capital to the Clippers in exchange for Leonard.

Leonard and the Raptors plan on signing an extension after the trade becomes official, which could now be several weeks away after the NBA's findings on Aspiration are finalized.