Griffin Calls Out Clippers After Chris Paul Exit

Blake Griffin called the Clippers’ surprise release of Chris Paul “disappointing,” saying he was shocked that Paul — who "brought a winning culture" to L.A. — had no conversations with coach Ty Lue or owner Steve Ballmer about the move. That lack of communication matters because Paul is more than a backup guard; his departure highlights internal friction and a swift, public reshaping of the roster that reverberates through the locker room. Merlin sees the split as both personal and practical. Reports say Paul’s leadership “clashed” with staff, and his on-court numbers (2.9 points, 3.3 assists in 14.3 minutes) were minimal; yet optics bite harder than stats. The Clippers may have fixed a fit, but they risk alienating veterans and fans — and Paul’s next step (retirement or a soft landing) will be watched like a spell being cast.