Los Angeles Clippers coach Doc Rivers has dismissed reports that there is a rift between point guard Chris Paul and center DeAndre Jordan.
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Reports emerged during the season that Paul and Jordan had fallen out, and in turn that had raised questions over what the latter would do as he is set to become a free agent on July 1.
Their apparent strained relationship led to speculation that he wouldn’t re-sign with the Clippers, and based on his performances this season, he wouldn’t have a shortage of suitors monitoring his situation.
Nevertheless, Rivers has moved to dismiss talk of there being any issues within his group, and believes that like every other team they have their disagreements but all the players get along fine.
“I can put this to rest: They get along great,” Rivers said, as reported by ESPN.
“Clearly, like everybody, they don’t get along all the time, and they don’t get along with me all the time, either, by the way. I don’t see that as an issue. I think all three, and I’m including Blake in this as well, understand how important the other guy is to them. Meaning, they all three need each other to win, and I think all three get that and all three know that and all three want to do it together. To me, that’s the most important thing.”
Rivers has previously insisted that the franchise would be offering Jordan a max deal to stay, which would see the towering center receive a five-year deal worth $108.7m. In contrast, he would only receive a four-year deal worth $80.7m elsewhere.
Although the Clippers suffered a disappointing setback this season after surrendering a 3-1 series lead against the Houston Rockets in the Western Conference semi-finals, Rivers insists that they are “right on schedule” with both Jordan and Griffin entering their prime at 26 and Paul still being arguably the best floor general in the league.
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