When the Clippers acquired Sam Cassell and a protected first round draft pick from the Timberwolves in 2005, it was immediately viewed as a win for the franchise. But as luck would have it, the deal not only netted the point guard who led the Clippers to one of their greatest seasons, but also helped land superstar Chris Paul six years later.“He was a proven leader, which was exactly what the Clippers needed. He was basically a coach on the floor. [Clippers head coach] Mike Dunleavy totally entrusted him. Sam called most of the plays. He was in charge of the team.”
The Mobley signing should not be overlooked either. It helped Cassell feel comfortable with the direction of the organization and ultimately agree to the deal. It’s comparable to when the Clippers claimed Chauncey Billups off waivers in December 2011. Both guards were widely-respected champions who had doubts about joining the franchise originally, but were convinced to re-sign after a year in the fold.Paul’s arrival ushered in another new era for the Clippers, an era of expectations. They won more than 60% of their games in Paul’s first season, a franchise first, and, again, thrust themselves into the thick of the Western Conference race.
While Paul and Cassell are vastly different, they both illustrate the importance of a great primary ball-handler, someone who commands all facets of the game when he’s on the floor. Still, the connection between Cassell and Paul is as much about culture change as it is tangible assets and on-the-court success.
“The Sam Cassell trade and that pick helped change the culture of the Clippers,” Turner said. “[Offseason acquisitions] Lamar Odom, Grant Hill, and Jamal Crawford are all branches as part of that process. It’s really amazing when you think about it.
Eric Patten, Clippers.com
On another note, CP and his wife just welcomed a baby girl to their family.
