This past Sunday, the Los Angeles Clippers lost a must win game 7 against the Utah Jazz. This story has become one the Clippers have become too familiar with. Blake Griffin once again suffered another injury that forced him to miss the rest of the playoffs. As talented Blake is, unfortunately, he continues to endure injuries at the most meaningful times of an NBA season. Chris Paul on the other hand, whose been healthy throughout his career, has always been a star dedicated to his craft.
Game 7
With game 7 taking place at home for the Los Angeles Clippers, the momentum was in their hands coming off a game 6 win in Utah.
Even without the presence of Blake Griffin, the Clippers seemed to have what it took to at least win this series against a young Utah team. The Clippers trailed the Jazz for most of the game. Once the Jazz were able to go ahead by a substantial amount, it seemed like they never looked back. At times the Clippers would show signs of a comeback, but the Jazz would answer with big baskets to keep the momentum. The loss meant so much for the future of the franchise that future hall of inductee Paul Pierce's farewell was forgotten.
Chris Paul
In 2011, the NBA blocked a trade that would've sent all-star guard Chris Paul to the Los Angeles Lakers. A decision that still remains a mystery to this day.
At the time the Lakers were still loaded with a roster that included the great Kobe Bryant. Combining the two with their remaining pieces would've possibly helped Paul when an NBA championship. Instead, he was sent to the L.A. Clippers a much younger team that benefited from Paul's leadership and experience. This coming offseason CP3 will become a free agent.
Considering the kind of luck the Clippers have had over the last six years that he's been there, the recent game 7 exit from the playoffs may have been the last time seeing Paul in a Clippers uniform.
Blake Griffin
Blake Griffin was the number one overall pick in the 2009 NBA draft. Blake's career started off tragic when he was forced to miss his rookie season in the NBA due to injury.
Since, Blake, along with CP3 and several others have turned the Clippers franchise into a contending team over the last six years. He's had his fair share of success on a pro level, but his constant injury issues have raised the question of his future with the franchise. This coming off-season the big question for the Clippers will be, is Griffin a player to continue to build around or has he now become a trade asset to begin the rebuilding process? Stay tuned.
