If the opportunity were to become a reality, there is a select list of players in the LA Clippers’ history that fans would love to have back on the team. They could be active or returning to the league from retirement, but seeing them in a Clippers uniform one last time would mean the world to many.
Take Chris Paul, for example; a legend who helped elevate the franchise just returned, and is receiving large amounts of enthusiasm and hype for having the willingness and heart to run it back through what will likely be the most crucial season of his career.
On the contrary, along with loved players are those who the fans would not like to see in red, white, and blue, no matter the circumstances. This should be a given for the front office, as the three players listed below have let the organization and fans down in some way, shape, or form.
3. Montrezl Harrell
Aside from a massive decline that became apparent directly after LA elected not to re-sign him, Montrezl Harrell chose to join the Los Angeles Lakers following his stint with the Clippers. This is a stone-cold move from the one-time Sixth Man of the Year, as he chose the Clippers’ biggest rivals.
Although Harrell may still be capable of playing in the NBA, even if he has not been in the league since the 2023-24 season, when he was injured and did not play, executive Lawrence Frank knows that the fans would not welcome him back with open arms.
2. Russell Westbrook
For a majority of his time with the LA Clippers, fans loved Russell Westbrook. He was perfect for the culture and played with nothing but heart and hustle, causing Clipper Nation to reminisce about Patrick Beverley, who had a relatively similar mentality.
However, Westbrook was ineffective in his last few games with the Clippers, particularly in the playoffs, which prompted Lawrence Frank to consider a trade.
The sour relationship with the fans increased from his recent stint with the Denver Nuggets, as he seemed eager and passionate about sending the Clippers home in Game 7. Much of it was unnecessary, even if he had a history with LA, explaining why he would not be welcomed.
1. Paul George
While he is still a big-name star, Paul George has quickly transitioned from being loved for his years with the LA Clippers to someone fans are now bitter towards. This is largely due to the fact that he did not resign, as well as his criticism of the fanbase through his podcast, 'Podcast P.'
He had strongly held opinions to share regarding the support LA receives from its fans, and this escalated the unpleasantness of the situation. Thus, Clipper Nation would not entertain the idea of a reunion, even if George was returning as part of the staff.