Doc Rivers Suggests Denver Nuggets' DeAndre Jordan for Los Angeles Clippers' First Jersey Retirement

Former Clippers coach Doc Rivers contends that DeAndre Jordan should be the inaugural player to have his jersey retired by the organization. During a conversation on the 'Sloane Knows' podcast, Doc asserted that Jordan's defensive prowess and extensive tenure with the franchise merit such recognition.

To this day, the Clippers stand as one of only two NBA teams without a retired jersey. Historically, the team endured a string of losses until the arrival of Chris Paul in 2011, followed by Blake Griffin and Doc Rivers, ushering in a period of competitive basketball.

DeAndre Jordan joined the Clippers in 2008, immediately showcasing elite defensive skills. His partnership with Paul elevated his offensive game, enabling him to play a pivotal role for the team. Across 10 seasons with the Clippers, Jordan averaged 9.4 points, 10.7 rebounds, and 1.7 blocks per game. He earned All-Star honors in 2017 and secured a place on the All-NBA team twice during his tenure.


Despite his modest statistical output, Jordan left a significant mark on the Clippers, representing the last vestige of the "lob city" era for a time. However, with Kawhi Leonard now leading the team, Jordan's legacy may fade into the background, potentially preventing him from becoming the franchise's first player to have his jersey retired.

DeAndre Jordan's tenure in Los Angeles started with championship aspirations, but soon faced a downturn. The Clippers, under immense pressure to succeed in the 2017 playoffs, faltered in the first round against the Jazz, signaling the end of an era.

Following that disappointing season, key players like Chris Paul and Blake Griffin departed, leaving Doc Rivers and Jordan as the remaining core members. Internal conflicts among players, cited by former Clipper Dahntay Jones, contributed to the team's unraveling.

Eventually, Jordan also parted ways with the Clippers. Now, with the team thriving under Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, Jordan aims for success with the Nuggets. While his return to the Clippers remains uncertain, he played a significant role in the "lob city" era, staying loyal to the organization when others departed.

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Jordan started in Denver's lineup against the Trail Blazers on Saturday. He concluded with 11 points, 8 rebounds, and 3 assists, contributing to the Nuggets' 114-111 victory.

His inclusion in the starting five at center was prompted by Nikola Jokic's absence (hip injury). Despite making only one start this season for the Nuggets, Jordan's overall impact has been limited. Across 30 appearances, he averaged just 4.0 points and 4.4 rebounds per game in 11.2 minutes of play.

Source Fadeway World : Doc Rivers Says DeAndre Jordan Should Be The First Player To Have His Jersey Retired By The Clippers
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