The Los Angeles Clippers have experienced their fair share of highs and lows, but the recent exit of Paul George represents a particularly challenging period for the franchise. George, who was anticipated to help lead the Clippers to a championship alongside Kawhi Leonard, left the team during the 2024 offseason due to stalled contract negotiations. The Clippers proposed a three-year extension, but George sought a four-year deal, which led to a breakdown in talks. Consequently, George chose to sign a more lucrative contract with the Philadelphia 76ers.
Financial limitations imposed by the new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) and concerns over the age of their roster influenced the Clippers’ decision to let George go rather than commit to a long-term contract that might restrict future flexibility. George’s departure creates a significant gap for the Clippers, as they now need to chart a new course without one of their star players. This situation is not unprecedented for the Clippers; let’s review some of their toughest departures over the past decade.
1. **Chris Paul**
Chris Paul’s arrival in Los Angeles in 2011 transformed the Clippers. Known as the “Point God,” Paul significantly elevated the team’s profile from a perennial underachiever to a serious playoff contender. His leadership and court vision, combined with Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan, formed the dynamic “Lob City” era, famous for its spectacular dunks and rapid play.
During his six seasons with the Clippers, Paul led the team to the playoffs each year, consistently positioning them as a strong contender in the Western Conference. Despite his exceptional performance, the Clippers never advanced past the second round of the playoffs, often hindered by injuries or underwhelming performances.
By 2017, the inability to reach the Western Conference Finals began to weigh on Paul and the organization. With the core of the Lob City era aging and the team’s championship window closing, Paul was traded to the Houston Rockets, marking the end of a successful era. The trade brought new players but also signaled the conclusion of the most successful period in Clippers’ history up to that time.
Paul’s departure was pivotal for the Clippers, who struggled to find success in the aftermath. His leadership and playmaking were hard to replace, leaving the franchise in search of a new identity.
2. **Paul George**
Paul George joined the Clippers in 2019 as part of their strategy to build a championship-contending team. Partnering with Kawhi Leonard, George was expected to deliver the Clippers’ first NBA title. Known for his strong two-way performance, George averaged 23.4 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 5.2 assists per game while earning multiple All-Defensive Team selections and three All-Star nods during his time with the Clippers.
Despite high expectations, George’s tenure was marred by injuries and inconsistent playoff performances. Although he led the Clippers to their first Western Conference Finals appearance in 2021, the team never secured a championship. Contract negotiations between George and the Clippers reached an impasse in the 2024 offseason, leading him to sign with the Philadelphia 76ers. This departure was a major setback for the Clippers’ championship aspirations, leaving them to rebuild without one of their star players.
3. **Blake Griffin**
Blake Griffin was the cornerstone of the Clippers during the Lob City era, known for his explosive dunks and dynamic play. Drafted first overall in 2009, Griffin quickly became a key player, earning the NBA Rookie of the Year award in his debut season. He was a six-time All-Star and a central figure in the team’s success during the early 2010s.
Griffin’s athleticism and skill helped the Clippers achieve multiple playoff appearances, though they never advanced past the second round. As Griffin’s injuries began to impact his performance, the team decided to trade him to the Detroit Pistons in January 2018. His departure marked the end of the Lob City era and began a new phase for the franchise.
Griffin’s exit was a major moment in Clippers history, signaling the end of their most successful period up to that point. His contributions are still celebrated, as he remains one of the most iconic players in the team’s history.
4. **DeAndre Jordan**
DeAndre Jordan was a key defensive and rebounding force for the Clippers during the Lob City era. Drafted by the Clippers in 2008, Jordan quickly became a dominant center known for his shot-blocking and rebounding. He led the league in rebounds twice and was an All-NBA First Team selection in 2016.
Jordan’s departure in 2018, when he signed with the Dallas Mavericks, marked the end of the Lob City core. His exit was a tough blow for the Clippers, who had already seen Griffin and Paul leave. Despite his departure, Jordan left a lasting legacy as one of the best big men in the franchise’s history.
5. **JJ Redick**
JJ Redick was one of the most efficient shooters during his time with the Clippers. Acquired in 2013, Redick quickly became a crucial part of the team’s offense, providing essential floor spacing. Over four seasons, he averaged 15.8 points per game and was known for his exceptional three-point shooting.
Redick’s departure in 2017 to the Philadelphia 76ers was a significant loss for the Clippers. His shooting and veteran leadership were difficult to replace, contributing to the gradual decline of the Lob City era. His exit was another step in the team’s transition away from their most competitive period.
6. **Lou Williams**
Lou Williams became a beloved figure in Clippers history, known for his scoring ability off the bench. Acquired in 2017 as part of the trade that sent Chris Paul to Houston, Williams won the Sixth Man of the Year award twice and averaged 19.1 points and 5.1 assists per game over four seasons.
Williams was instrumental in the Clippers’ unexpected 2019 playoff run. His trade to the Atlanta Hawks in March 2021 ended his impactful stint with the Clippers. His departure was emotional, as he had become a symbol of the team’s resilience and determination.
7. **Montrezl Harrell**
Montrezl Harrell was known for his energy and hustle during his time with the Clippers. Acquired in 2017, Harrell quickly became one of the best sixth men in the league, earning the Sixth Man of the Year award in 2020. His high-energy play and chemistry with Lou Williams were key to the Clippers’ success.
Harrell’s surprising decision to sign with the Lakers in the 2020 offseason was a major blow to the Clippers. His exit marked the end of a successful bench unit and highlighted the shift in the team’s dynamics. Harrell’s departure left a void in the Clippers’ lineup, further challenging the team’s competitiveness in the Western Conference.
