The Los Angeles Clippers were a force on Thursday night, taking down the Spurs in game 6 to force a game 7. Blake Griffin was key for the Clippers in the won, putting up 26 points, 12 rebounds, and six assists. Griffin has improved so much over the last couple of years. He’s gone from someone who was known solely for his highlight-reel dunks to a player capable of knocking down midrange jumpers. He’s also a very adept passer and ball-hander for his size.
However, saying that he’s the Clippers best player is a bit of a stretch. Obviously, he’s a very important part of the team, but I would say that superstar point guard Chris Paul still remains the best two-way player on the team.
Per Sam Amick of USA TODAY Sports, Matt Barnes doesn’t agree. Barnes told Amick:
“Ooh, man. [Griffin]’s the best player on the court every night, and I think he knows that. That’s big for us. I think he had so much so fast (earlier in his career) that the world expected (too much) and it’s been a learning process. He’s definitely one of the best players, and the best player on our team. His maturity, to know when to attack, to know when to make plays, to really be a legitimate point forward and put pressure on the other team, playing both ends. He’s been big for us.
It’s understandable that Barnes would say this directly after Griffin was key in a huge win to remain in the playoffs. However, CP3 was no slouch in the game either, going for 19 points, 15 assists, 4 rebounds, and 4 steals.
Hopefully, Paul doesn’t take Barnes’ comment in the wrong way. If he does, it could have a negative effect on team chemistry, something that they can’t afford against the mighty Spurs.
Game 7 between the Clippers and Spurs will be played Saturday night at 8 pm Eastern Time.
