The Los Angeles Clippers are chugging along, continuing to play well without Blake Griffin who’s hand looks nasty. I mean the stitches in that hand make me wonder how UFC fighters don’t do it more often. (Well they’re professionals obviously.)
The Clips have been taking calls, listening to everyone who wants to make a deal involving Blake Griffin but in the short term they have to take action on the incident involving an equipment staffer and today in-house action has been taken. The Clippers have suspended Griffin for 4 Games.
Doc Rivers released the following statement:
“The L.A. Clippers announced today that forward Blake Griffin has been suspended without pay for four games for striking a team employee on Jan. 23 and his wages will be withheld for one additional game for injuries he sustained. The NBA has assisted us in this process.
“The Clippers will donate the salary from the five games to charities focused on disadvantaged youth in Los Angeles. At his request, Blake will support this activity with his time.
“We have made it clear that this conduct has no place in the Clippers organization. Blake is remorseful and has apologized for his actions. He is a valued member of our Clippers family and we support him as he rejoins the team. He understands his actions have consequences, and is eager to get back to work with his teammates, the organization and Clipper Nation which starts immediately with rehab, appearances and attendance at games.
“For our team and organization, it is time to move forward which begins today and ultimately concludes when we have Blake back on the court.“
Nice little gesture with the salary donation I like that touch.
What I am pondering on is when is the suspension in effect? I mean he’s injured now, won’t the suspension be pointless if they do it now? Or will they do it when Griffin hops off the inactives list? It’s most likely the latter.
