In recent days, both sides have been negotiating a resolution to the investigation, the people have said. Those talks led by attorney David N, Kelly of law firm O’Melveny & Myers for Ballmer and the Clippers, and NBA general counsel Rick Buchanan at times have been “spirited” one source said.
Seems like this is why the story got leaked today, perhaps Ballmer wasn’t liking what the resolution talks would have been and is forcing the leagues hand by going public a bit here.
This story does not put the league in the best light hence Ballmer slanted.