October 21st: NBA Commissioner Adam Silver recently gave an interview to Sports Illustrated.
Sports Illustrated asked: You've said you need to see a "complete chain of evidence" before determining whether the Clippers intentionally circumvented the salary cap. Some team executives have asked, what exactly do you need to see to determine the team violated the rules?
Silver replied: I've been asked whether circumstantial evidence is sufficient—just like in court, sometimes there's direct evidence, and sometimes there's circumstantial evidence. Of course, relying solely on circumstantial evidence doesn't preclude us from making a ruling in favor of a party. But even with circumstantial evidence, we need to examine the entirety of the situation. So, this isn't a formulaic judgment. We will review all submitted materials, including reasonable inferences drawn from the evidence.
Sports Illustrated followed up: Do you expect this investigation to last?
Silver responded: I really can't predict at this point. Based on past experience, it will take some time. So far, while most of the sources remain anonymous, the volume is substantial. There are also independent legal proceedings underway. The amount of evidence we need to review is substantial. This matter is of great importance, and as a league we must proceed with caution, ensuring fairness to the Clippers and Steve Ballmer while also thoroughly clarifying the full extent of this incident.
