Blake Griffin believes Chris Paul would be a perfect fit for the New York Knicks after being released by the Los Angeles Clippers.
Chris Paul, who returned to the Los Angeles Clippers on a one-year deal for what he says will be his final NBA season, has been away from the team since December 3.
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New York Knicks have reportedly had internal discussions about the possibility of trading for Paul. New York has struggled at the backup point guard spot this season after Malcolm Brogdon’s sudden retirement before the season started.
Blake Griffin, a former teammate of Paul’s during the Clippers’ “Lob City” era and now an analyst for Amazon Prime’s NBA coverage, weighed in on the potential pairing.
“What’s crazy is you’ve seen him get to Oklahoma City and see him be a leader, a mentor, a guy who is sort of teaching and helping guys learn the game,” Griffin said per New York Post. “He did that for us with the Clippers. Houston was sort of a different situation. He went to Phoenix, and it was the first time in forever Phoenix really had true success, with Chris Paul at the point guard.”
“CP was in San Antonio and sort of did the same thing. So time and time again, he’s proved that’s been my biggest thing with this whole situation. Time and time again, he’s gone to a team, and kind of fit the role that he needed to fit. Played less minutes. Did this, did that. So it’d be great for the Knicks.”
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The Clippers parted ways with Paul amid reported friction with coaches and executives, though they said they would help him find a new team.
Knicks president Leon Rose also has a longtime history with Paul, having previously served as his agent, which could make a deal easier to navigate.
Griffin noted that while Paul could provide leadership and stability for New York, finishing his career in a Knicks jersey would feel unusual. “That’s weird to think of,” Griffin said. “If he retires a Knick, that’s crazy. They’re a great team.”
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