Blake Griffin didn’t hold back.
The former Clippers star expressed strong disappointment during Amazon’s NBA coverage on Friday while discussing Chris Paul’s abrupt and messy departure from the franchise.
Earlier this week, Paul was sent home by the organization after reportedly clashing with head coach Ty Lue and staff members.
The 40-year-old is in his 21st NBA season and has expressed his intention to retire after the 2025-2026 season. His return to the Clippers was notable, as he is more than likely the consensus best player in franchise history.
Griffin – another player who can make that claim – was an old teammate of Paul’s during the Clippers’ “Lob City” run from 2011-2017.
“I’m just disappointed, to be honest. I can’t really think of another word,” Griffin said while on the Prime Video set with Udonis Haslem, Candace Parker and Taylor Rooks. “Obviously shocked at first, but disappointed. I’m disappointed for Chris Paul, but I’m disappointed in the Clippers organization.”
Griffin continued: “Chris Paul is a guy who came to the Clippers when DeAndre [Jordan] and I were first and second year boys. He brought a winning culture. He taught us how to operate in the NBA and how to take every game seriously, how to take your body seriously, that there was no detail that was too small… Chris Paul has been the same player for 20 years. He was all about winning.”
Griffin also noted that in his opinion, Paul should have been treated better during his “farewell tour.”
Paul signed a veteran deal worth at least $3.6 million for this season, which counts as $2.3 million against the Clippers’ cap due to NBA league rules, and will not be eligible for trade until December 15.
“He re-signed with the Clippers. This was supposed to be his moment, his return to LA. ‘I’m giving it one last chance.’ And that he cannot leave the franchise he chose to join on his own terms to end his career is extremely disappointing,” said Griffin.
“But I think the biggest reason I’m disappointed is what Chris said. No communication with Ty Lue. And, more than that, no communication – I spoke to CP on Wednesday, I spoke to him yesterday, I spoke to him today – no communication with [team governor] Steve Ballmer. And that for me is the disappointing thing.”
Although the group never advanced to the conference finals, Paul’s tenure reshaped the franchise’s identity.
That’s why Griffin says the way it ended feels like a betrayal, both for Paul and for everything he meant to the team.
As Paul now considers his next move, Griffin made it clear where he stands.
The Clippers, who lost to the Grizzlies 107-98 tonight, are now 6-17 on the season.
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