Chris Paul officially signed an extension with the Los Angeles Clippers Wednesday morning. Later that day the team held a press conference. However, it wasn’t about Paul's new contract—it was about the entire team and the direction in which the team is headed, according to ESPNLosAngeles.com.
The Clippers’ press conference was held on a stage with Paul, center Ryan Hollins, forward Matt Barnes,—the Clipper’s resignees—forward Jared Dudley, guard J.J. Redick, guard Darren Collison,—the Clippers’ new players—, Senior Vice President of Basketball Operations and Head Coach Doc Rivers, Vice President of Basketball Operations Gary Sacks and President of Operations Andy Roeser—the Clippers’ front office.
"This press conference is special," said Paul. "It was me along with five other guys. There's no one person that's more important than the team and I absolutely mean that. That picture there of all of us up there is one I'll probably hang up in my house."
Paul’s extension with the Clippers is for five years, $107 million—and he’s worth every penny. The Wake-Forest product has led the team to two straight playoff appearances and is perennially in the conversation for best point guard in the league.
According to Paul, after he sat down with his family he knew the correct decision.
"I don't remember the actual day but I remember being at home and I asked my wife, 'You think we're going to stay?' "said Paul. "She said, 'Yep, if you think it's the right decision.' I talked to my brother and everyone else and I felt this gave me the best opportunity to win."
When the offseason began—and the Miami Heat celebration had some time to die down—many discussed where Paul would land. There were early talks he and center Dwight Howard would team up. That obviously did not work out since Howard is now with the Houston Rockets.
"We had a conversation," said Paul. "Me and Dwight had a conversation. We're actually good friends and our parents are extremely close. Dwight made the decision that was best for him and his family and I did the same. I wish him the best. He's an unbelievable guy and has a big heart and I'm happy to see him get back healthy."
There’s definitely one person in the Clippers organization that is glad Paul stayed—Doc Rivers.
"It was important; that helped us," said the former Boston Celtics coach. "I thought it was big for us. It told everyone that he really wants to be here and didn't want to go on a parade route to these other cities."
