It's official! An investigation into under-the-table contracts has begun, and the NBA has halted the Leonard trade.

What? Seriously?

In the end, he's been caught in the crossfire.

Insider Shams reports: The trade between the Clippers and Raptors for Leonard cannot be officially completed until the NBA finishes its investigation into the superstar.

The NBA has been investigating whether the Clippers gave Leonard an under-the-table $28 million endorsement deal to bypass the league's salary cap. So far, there has been no definitive outcome.

The Raptors issued a statement saying they will wait for the investigation results and still hope to bring Leonard back to Toronto. The Clippers also stated that they never illegally provided funds to Leonard and believe the investigation will reveal the truth.

In early July of this year, the Raptors sent Ingram, Dick, two first-round picks, one first-round pick swap, and two second-round picks to the Clippers in exchange for Leonard.

It was thought that Toronto would finally welcome back the King of the North, but as expected, something went wrong. At the very least, the joy will have to be postponed, or perhaps it was all just a dream.

In the 2018-2019 season, Leonard was also traded from the Spurs to the Raptors. During the regular season, he averaged 26.6 points, 7.3 rebounds, 3.3 assists, and 1.8 steals per game, while in the playoffs he averaged a staggering 30.5 points, 9.1 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and 1.7 steals per game, leading the team to its first-ever championship. It was this successful partnership that prompted him to choose to return to Toronto this summer.

Notably, Leonard plans to retire as a Raptor, and the two sides have even been discussing a contract extension. The 35-year-old veteran is now eligible for a two-year, $123.7 million early extension, and he might still have a chance to pursue his third NBA championship ring.

What a pity, what a pity. As mentioned above, due to the trade being suspended and even at risk of falling through, Leonard may not be able to return to the Raptors after all. This means that the original plans could all be dashed, which would undoubtedly be a heavy blow to all parties involved.

The NBA responded to the investigation into Leonard, stating: There is no clear timeline for completion, but the work is expected to be finished within the next few weeks.

Just get it over with—give us a clear verdict one way or the other. Having this sword hanging over everyone's heads is torturous and painful for all involved. There's no need to drag it out.

Last season, Leonard had his best campaign with the Clippers, playing 65 regular-season games and averaging 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.9 steals per game, shooting an impressive 50.5% from the field. He was named to the All-NBA Second Team.