Tensions run high in CP3’s return to Lob City
Much like any other high profile return, superstar point guard Chris Paul was welcomed back to Staple Center with a tribute video, a mix of cheers and boos, and a shower of applause. For the most part, the game went smoothly, former teammates reunited amicably and play went on without a hitch.
However, as the game came to its end, things got heated between old friends and tempers began to flare. As the clock ticked down, the game was all but decided, but a few questionable calls plus a couple fiery words here and there turned friendly competition into torn tights, shoving, technical fouls and ejections.
Unfortunately, while the game ended in a 113-102 victory for the Clippers, the on court drama didn’t end at the sound of the buzzer for the two teams. According to ESPN, several Rockets players including Chris Paul, Trevor Ariza and Clint Cappella made their way to the Clippers locker room in hopes of confronting Los Angles combo guard Austin Rivers.
While Rivers rode the bench due to injury, he made his presence known throughout the night. On more than one occasion, the scorer egged on a number of Rockets players as he jawed back and forth from the sidelines.
Security escorted the players away before any physical confrontation ensued, but it is alleged that the Police were called to get involved in separating the two feuding teams. Nobody was hurt and no suspensions or fines have been handed out at this point, but with the NBA beginning an investigation of their own into the matters, it’s hard to see all the participants in this event walking away clean.
Blake Griffin scored 29 points before his ejection, and the scorching hot Lou Williams added 31 of his own. Although the Clippers came away with their fifth straight victory, it’s doubtful that many will remember this game for it’s play rather than its locker room spectacle.
Despite sitting on the outside looking in, the Clippers are within arms reach of the eight seed in the Western Conference. By the time Los Angeles squares off against Houston again, it’ll be February 28th and the playoff picture will be much clearer.
Until then, keep your eyes open on twitter and stock up on your popcorn. Their next matchup isn’t for another month, but after watching this game, you won’t want to miss the next one.
