Chris Paul, Blake Griffin, DeAndre Jordan Reunite Amid Clippers Drama
Chris Paul, Blake Griffin, and DeAndre Jordan recently reunited, prompting reflections on their tumultuous history with the Los Angeles Clippers. This meet-up comes on the heels of Paul’s unexpected departure from the franchise, which parted ways with the 40-year-old guard. As a cornerstone of the Clippers, Paul holds the franchise record for assists, tallying 4,076 over 425 games.
Chris Paul’s Clippers Legacy
During his time with the Clippers, Paul also made significant contributions in various statistics:
- 6th in total points: 7,721
- 9th in field goals made: 2,718
- 5th in three-pointers made: 628
- 2nd in steals: 913
- 1st in win shares: 78.2
Despite a shaky relationship with the franchise, Paul was instrumental in establishing the Clippers as contenders during his tenure. However, the team has faced criticisms for how it handles star players, continuing to exit talent under contentious circumstances.
Reactions and Future After Departure
Lawrence Frank, the Clippers’ basketball president, expressed intentions to assist Paul in his next career phase. This gesture points to a cooperative exit, despite it being made publicly without consultation with Paul. As he points toward retirement, the decision to part ways seemed sudden and surprising to many fans and analysts.
The Clippers currently struggle with a 5-16 record, raising questions about their roster decisions. The franchise’s history is marked by dramatic departures, with both Griffin and Jordan sharing similar fates after promising commitments to stay in Los Angeles.
A Pivotal Moment in Clippers History
Between 2011 and 2017, the Clippers boasted a win percentage of .658, tied for the third-best in the NBA. All three players—Paul, Griffin, and Jordan—garnered All-Star and All-NBA accolades, yet none reached the NBA Finals during their peak.
Griffin’s trade to the Detroit Pistons came just six months after he secured a long-term deal. Jordan’s exit was less surprising after he opted for the Dallas Mavericks following an indecisive free agency. These departures illustrate a pattern of the Clippers parting ways with critical figures under complex circumstances.
As Chris Paul navigates the next chapter of his career, his friendships with former teammates serve as a reminder of better days. Their reunion amidst the chaos of Clippers drama underscores the shared history that continues to impact their journeys.
