NBA Grapples with Investigations and All-Star Shake-Ups Amidst Season Turmoil

The NBA is facing a week of significant developments, with ongoing investigations into the Los Angeles Clippers for potential salary cap violations and the Oklahoma City Thunder for allegedly resting healthy players. Concurrently, the league is preparing for its revamped All-Star Game, which will proceed without star Stephen Curry due to injury, introducing a new three-team tournament format.

By: AXL Media

Published: Feb 14, 2026, 8:47 AM EST

Source: Grand Pinnacle Tribune

The National Basketball Association finds itself navigating a complex landscape this week, marked by high-profile investigations and notable changes to its upcoming All-Star festivities. Two Western Conference contenders, the Los Angeles Clippers and the Oklahoma City Thunder, are currently under league scrutiny for distinct reasons, casting a shadow over their respective seasons.

The LA Clippers are facing an NBA investigation concerning a substantial endorsement deal involving their star forward, Kawhi Leonard. The probe centers on a $28 million contract between Leonard and the now-bankrupt California-based Aspiration Fund Adviser LLC, with the league examining potential salary cap implications. Clippers president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank stated on February 9, 2026, that the team has not received new information since September but remains confident in their position. This investigation comes as the Clippers have also been active in the trade market, notably sending James Harden to the Cavaliers and Ivica Zubac to the Pacers, while acquiring Darius Garland and Bennedict Mathurin. Frank described the decision to trade Zubac as particularly emotional, highlighting the strong bond within the team.

Meanwhile, the Oklahoma City Thunder are under investigation for alleged violations of the NBA's player participation policy. The league announced on February 9, 2026, that it is looking into the Thunder's decision to rest several players during a nationally televised game against the San Antonio Spurs on February 4. Concerns were raised as the Thunder reportedly fielded only eight players, including five regulars and three two-way players, prompting questions about the availability of the absent players. The investigation into the Thunder's player resting practices is ongoing, with no findings or potential penalties announced as of February 10, 2026.

Adding to the league's dynamic week, preparations for the 2026 NBA All-Star Game are underway, albeit with a significant roster change. Golden State Warriors star guard Stephen Curry has been ruled out of the All-Star Game due to a knee injury. Warriors head coach Steve Kerr made the announcement, noting Curry has been dealing with patellofemoral pain syndrome (Runner's knee) since November 2025 and has not played since January 30. His absence is a blow to the Warriors, who have struggled with a 5-9 r...