When reviewing the team's history, few players are eligible to have their jersey retired by the LA Clippers. Although there is no specific criterion, the player had to have achieved a certain status among the fan base, both statistically and through their household name.
Current Clipper Chris Paul is one of the names at the top of the list, as his journey with the team has been unforgettable. He led an up-and-coming roster in the peak of his prime, and though a championship was not brought to his name in the 'Lob City' era, Paul was the heart of the team each year.
However, Paul's uniform cannot be retired, as his career is still in motion. A player who can be considered is Blake Griffin, and most have him ranked ahead of the Hall of Fame point guard as the most honored player to ever enter the Clippers' locker room.
Griffin's motor was endless and persistent in rim running. He gave Clipper fans everything he had, and ended a seven-and-a-half season tenure with five All-Star appearances, four All-NBA selections, and a historical Rookie of the Year campaign.
Additionally, Griffin is second on the Clippers' points leaders, third in rebounds, and third in minutes, placing him in a category by himself, where only legends can be found.
That said, Griffin's days in LA are forever ingrained in the Clippers' organization, and he deserves to reach the same stature that another franchise favorite recently obtained in another city.
Blake Griffin's number and jersey combination must be placed in the rafters by Steve Ballmer and the LA Clippers
As Blake Griffin is an icon in Los Angeles, Derrick Rose is on a similar tier in the city of Chicago. He wore the number one with a passion and extended his career to an MVP award, surpassing LeBron James' greatness.
Furthermore, the Bulls recently did right by retiring Rose's jersey, so that his number can never be worn again. This is honorable, and something he deserves for his contributions in the Windy City.
The LA Clippers should replicate this achievement by dedicating the number 32 to Griffin's name, as no future player should be able to choose it due to the significance behind it.
Griffin has earned the right to enjoy a Clippers game on any given evening, where he can look up to catch his jersey in the rafters, and when the day comes, emotions will be extensive in each seat of Intuit Dome.