The Los Angeles Clippers were already spiraling through one of the roughest starts in the league, but a very different drama was unfolding quietly in the background. A franchise icon had returned for what many believed would be a final run, only for those plans to collapse in stunning and unexplained fashion.
Chris Paul, like the rest of the NBA world, was blindsided by the team’s decision to send him home. And while the veteran guard has kept things professional and avoided criticizing the organization, his former teammate Blake Griffin isn’t holding back.
Blake Griffin Slams Clippers for Disrespecting Chris Paul
Paul’s sudden release from the Clippers shocked the NBA, especially since this final chapter of his career was supposed to be celebratory. The veteran guard had signed a one-year deal in the offseason, aiming to finish his career where he experienced some of his greatest success.
Despite Paul’s attempts to address internal issues, the Clippers, including head coach Tyronn Lue, did not engage, and he was sent home mid-game. Griffin, Paul’s former teammate during his Clippers tenure, expressed both shock and disappointment over how the organization handled the situation.
“I’m just disappointed,” Griffin said on ‘NBA on Prime.’ “To be honest. I can’t think of really another word. Obviously shocked at first. But disappointed. I’m disappointed for Chris Paul. But I’m disappointed in the Clippers organization.”
Griffin, who played with the Clippers from 2009-2018, emphasized Paul’s impact on the franchise, noting how he helped transform the team from a laughingstock into a perennial NBA championship contender. During Paul’s first stint in Los Angeles, the Clippers reached the playoffs six consecutive years, with Paul earning five All-Star nods.
Griffin’s disappointment extends beyond the decision itself to the lack of communication that followed.
“But I think the biggest reason I’m disappointed is what Chris said: No communication with Ty Lue,” Griffin shared.
“And, even more than that, you know, no communication — I talked to CP Wednesday, I talked to him yesterday, I talked to him today — no communication with Steve Ballmer. And that’s, like, the disappointing thing for me.”
Behind the scenes, reports suggest internal friction during the Clippers’ recent struggles, with Paul reportedly holding teammates and coaches accountable. The organization allegedly viewed this accountability as disruptive rather than constructive.
When Paul attempted to meet with Lue to discuss the issues, the meeting never happened. NBA insider Chris Haynes also reported tension between Paul and assistant coach Jeff Van Gundy, who delivered a pointed reality check to the veteran.
Paul recently spoke with Haynes about the abrupt exit, admitting he was still shaken, but he remains focused and ready for his next opportunity in the league.
