Chris Paul and DeAndre Jordan reportedly had a falling out.
Over what?
Bill Reiter of Fox Sports:Sources say Paul’s well-known edginess and drive ground on Jordan’s nerves for much of the year. Contributing to the problem was Paul’s view that Jordan lacked the appropriate commitment to working on his free throws, including not working enough with the Clippers shooting coach on that issue, sources said.
“Things aren’t good there,” a league source familiar with the inner workings of the Clippers organization said. Asked if the issues between the two were serious, the source said, “Oh yeah. (Jordan) might leave. He really might.”
I’m a little skeptical this is the root of the rift, which in turn, makes me a little skeptical the rift even exists.
Don’t get me wrong. This could be a completely accurate portrayal of the situation. But it sounds more like a story someone would tell and believe (and tell to someone else who believes who…).
Jordan makes his free throws in warmups. That doesn’t happen without practice. His issues at the line seem more mental.
Of course, the incredibly competitive Paul could see things differently. I think he’d understand the difference between an effort issue and a mental issue, but that’s no guarantee.
But of this I’m certain: The Clippers must re-sign Jordan to avoid taking a step back. Whatever Paul thinks of Jordan’s free throws, I hope the point guard understands that.
