The LA Clippers have so much to think about this summer after yet, another first round playoff exit. Both franchise stars Chris Paul & Blake Griffin have early termination clauses they can exercise to become free agent’s this summer.
The LA Clippers have the advantage this off-season because they are the only team that can offer both Chris Paul and Blake Griffin more money. Compared to the league wide max. contract. Clippers guard Chris Paul is expected to earn around $205 million for five years according to Timothy Rapp of Bleacher Report.
If Paul were to go somewhere else he can only earn a max of four years $152 million. Steve Kyler of Basketball Insiders had reported Chris and the Clippers have verbally agreed to reach a deal. However, that does not mean he cannot exercise his options, which he plans on doing. It makes most sense for Paul to stay; he has his entire life and family in LA. The bigger question is whether Blake Griffin will stay in LA or have a change of heart.
Additionally, if the LA Clippers were to re-sign Blake Griffin, he can earn up to $175 million for five years. Signing with another team limits Griffin to $130 million. Blake will be in his prime throughout this contract so the decision is urgent. Steve also reported earlier this season.
"“Sources close to Griffin said recently that he is not remotely interested in changing teams and they expect the deal process to go very smoothly and quickly this summer.”"
Many have speculated about breaking up the team and letting one of the stars walk away and rebuilding. Realistically, it is unlikely that will happen. Why ruin your chances when you are nearly in there every year before something drastic happens? Obviously when the best offer is on the table, having an established core with potential is important in this league. They have to commit, when nowadays teams will load up on superstars such as the Warriors and Cavaliers. They are the only two teams who have the best chances year after year,while the other teams who are right there suffer the same demise. If the Clippers stay together and stay healthy by some miracle, and get a wild card or another All-Star, they can get lucky one year. It begins with re-signing their best players.