As the post-Kawhi Leonard era begins, the Clippers owe more to their fans

The Los Angeles Times' Mirjam Swanson argues that the Los Angeles Clippers owe far more meaningful gestures to their loyal supporters following severe NBA sanctions. After an opening-night 121-96 victory over the Sacramento Kings, coach Tyronn Lue dedicated the win to suspended team owner Steve Ballmer, drawing criticism from Swanson who asserts the organization should prioritize fighting for fans rather than the penalized owner.

The NBA stripped the Clippers of first-round draft picks from 2029 through 2033, issued a $30 million fine, and suspended top executives for salary cap circumvention involving Kawhi Leonard, who was traded back to Toronto. Swanson contends that modest opening-night perks like free parking and limited jersey trade-ins fall short, urging the Clippers to extend parking discounts and provide greater transparency regarding player injuries.