Chauncey Billups likely has torn achilles, may retire.

[Clippersfan86]

It's being reported that Billups likely has a torn achilles. Rumors of retirement if true due to time it takes to recover and rehab. Very sad news. Gallinari also got a serious injury tonight from what I heard. So the 2nd and 3rd seed in west lost key guys.

Clippers gotta figure it out because Billups wasn't an ideal SG anyways. Now they should really pursue a SG.

Update: Yeah, it's torn, and his season is over. Read http://www.insidehoops.com/blog/?p=9222

[Scoooter]

JR Smith to the Clippers, minus C. Billups to keep him in check. That could be entertaining.

[REACTION]

Sucks

[KDthunderup]

Would be hard for him if true, he still had alot to offer

[ThatsGame]

Damn injuries are piling up left and right for teams...

[AMISTILLILL]

Wow. That BLOWS.

[Clippersfan86]

nope sorry my thread was first.

http://www.insidehoops.com/forum/showthread.php?t=250937

:roll:

Didnt see it.

[SethVicious]

Karma for flopping against the Nuggets

[iDunk]

JR is still not gonna go to the Clips. I might sound like a homer, its just pretty obvious from the shit he's been tweeting that he's got "other" teams in mind.

[Pushxx]

Always sucks to lose 11.4 FGA at 36% (Billups) when his backup shoots 50% on 11.4 FGA (Williams).

[O_City_Thunder]

It's being reported that Billups likely has a torn achilles. Rumors of retirement if true due to time it takes to recover and rehab. Very sad news. Gallinari also got a serious injury tonight from what I heard. So the 2nd and 3rd seed in west lost key guys.

Clippers gotta figure it out because Billups wasn't an ideal SG anyways. Now they should really pursue a SG.
Retirement? Dam, it just happened like a hour ago. Already rumors of retirement? :confusedshrug:

[MJ(Mean John)]

Got damn this sucks for him. Lol

Just when things were looking good for the clips,
Same ending, different story.

[Clippersfan86]

Always sucks to lose 11.4 FGA at 36% (Billups) when his backup shoots 50% on 11.4 FGA (Williams).

Replacing his leadership is the problem.

[Zenji]

That's terrible. I feel bad for Billups.

[c3z4r]

I'm tempted to create another thread: "Billups Chauncey has possibly torn achilles, retirement looks near" since it would be fun seeing the top 3 threads being the same, only with different titles.

[KDthunderup]

Always sucks to lose 11.4 FGA at 36% (Billups) when his backup shoots 50% on 11.4 FGA (Williams).
But they lose a 6th man

[Clippersfan86]

Retirement? Dam, it just happened like a hour ago. Already rumors of retirement? :confusedshrug:

At his age.. Recovery of this can be nearly a year. He only wanted to play 2.

[Rekindled]

Replacing his leadership is the problem.

he can probably take over coaching from vdn

[Lebron23]

Will the Pistons retire Mr. Big Shots jersey number?

[Rowe]

Retirement? Dam, it just happened like a hour ago. Already rumors of retirement? :confusedshrug:
Clippersfan86 heard it from 1 of his sources.









































































http://www.beyondlife.net/uploads/CASPER.png

[Pushxx]

Replacing his leadership is the problem.

CP3 and Blake will be just fine without him.

[Scholar]

Another Clipper player bites the dust. :(


The only positive coming from this is that maybe Williams will start to see more playtime now.

[pegasus]

Retirement? Dam, it just happened like a hour ago. Already rumors of retirement? :confusedshrug:
At first I didn't want to believe the rumors, but it's been a full minute and no one from his side has denied it.

[Rake2204]

Do you think the Pistons are gonna retire his jersey number?
Yes. The Pistons franchise has a history of treating their champions well in that regard. The Bad Boys era brought about the retiring of #11 (Isiah Thomas), #4 (Joe Dumars), #40 (Bill Laimbeer), #10 (Dennis Rodman), and #15 (Vinnie Johnson), not to mention #2 in honor of Chuck Daly and his two rings.

I believe the Pistons will, at the very least, retire Chauncey's #1 and Ben's #3.

[bluechox2]

knicks dodged a bullet there, injury with billups is inevitable at this point in time, and we would never had tyson and linsanity :lol

[pegasus]

Clippersfan86 heard it from 1 of his sources.









http://www.beyondlife.net/uploads/CASPER.png


That's just wrong :roll: :roll: :roll:

[Whoah10115]

They won't lose his leadership. He'll still be on the sideline. On the floor, they have Paul.



Now, it's almost kinda acceptable to go after JR Smith...no...no it isn't.

[CLTHornets4eva]

Chauncey is the model of the consumate pro. I hope this isn't the end of the line.

Tough for the clipps. JR Smith would be an especially good get for the Clips now.

[ChrisKreager]

Cue the 'I told you it was a matter of time' Laker fans .

[AMISTILLILL]

"Y'all ****** wanna roll out to my workout this week?"
http://cdn1.newsone.com/files/2010/03/iconphotostwo157290-nba-dec-11-celt-gilbert-arenas.jpg

[Clippersfan86]

Typical recovery time including rehab is 12 months. Probably more for older players.

[Fiasco]

Boooooooooo.

[pegasus]

Typical recovery time including rehab is 12 months. Probably more for older players.
Okur had the same injury and was out two years, although the second year may have been about his back more than his foot.

[SpecialQue]

I always viewed Chauncey as the elephant in the room with this team. Some of his boneheaded plays and chucking either lost or almost lost some games. It's a pretty huge blow to the team's morale though.

[Clippersfan86]

I always viewed Chauncey as the elephant in the room with this team. Some of his boneheaded plays and chucking either lost or almost lost some games. It's a pretty huge blow to the team's morale though.

I agree. Production isn't a big blow... ball movement without him should improve. It's the mental toughness, leadership, clutch and mentoring role he has that's the huge blow. I understand he will still be on the bench but it's not the same. Mo Williams needs to be moved for a SG for sure now. We literally don't have a single true SG.

[Clippersfan86]

He may very well go out like Zeke :(

[Bigsmoke]

They still have enough scoring options.

[Clippersfan86]

They still have enough scoring options.

As we said. Many people can replace 14 ppg on 35 percent shooting. It's more the on court poise and leadership that's a big blow.

[Lakers_Kobe_Fan]

As we said. Many people can replace 14 ppg on 35 percent shooting. It's more the on court poise and leadership that's a big blow.

you start Mo Williams and then fcuk up the bench...Clippers bench is i think 27 or 28. just 2 above the pathetic Lakers who are dead last

[Clippersfan86]

you start Mo Williams and then fcuk up the bench...Clippers bench is i think 27 or 28. just 2 above the pathetic Lakers who are dead last

Worse. Clippers bench is 29th. Mo starts and we have zero scoring production off bench after Kenyon, Foye. I think Mo should be traded for a long term solid, starting SG and the Clippers can rely on Foye, Kenyon, Bledsoe and Trey Thompkins for scoring off the bench. Trey is looking good lately when he plays and Bledsoe is a very solid back up guard.

[Locked_Up_Tonight]

Chauncy Billups wasn't brought in for the regular season. He was brought in for the playoffs. When teams slow it down. When clutchness matters.

Chauncy may have been shooting like crap, but he is /was their best closer. And that is huge in tight ball games. And the playoffs, there are very few blowouts.

[Rockets(T-mac)]

Damn that sucks him.... Clippers lose a veteran leader too.

[Smoke117]

I dont see this as a loss for the Clippers. Guy just chucks away anyway.

[AMISTILLILL]

If they can't get JR Smith, I honestly wouldn't be thrown if they reached out to Arenas. Unexpected circumstances like these call for assistance in peculiar places.

While Arenas IN NO WAY replaces what Billups brings to the floor, strictly from a perspective of leadership and veteran poise, he's worth a second or third look. Ordinarily if it was, say the Lakers or something, I would be a bit leery, since that team is already reeling from its share of chemistry killing complications, but this Clippers team could likely absorb the quirks of a guy like Gilbert.

I mean, you're essentially taking the same risk with Arenas, chemistry-wise, that you are with Smith: two guys who have rubbed plenty of people the wrong way, play with a chip on their shoulders and have had their hand in some shady dealings off the court. It's low risk in my eyes. If he's troublesome or ineffective, you've still got a month before the trade deadline to open up a roster spot and bring in a competent D-League player or vet (Lester Hudson, Eddie House).

Obviously Smith gets the benefit of the doubt because we're certain he can still play at an impressive level (albeit in spurts). I suppose we'll see how this all plays out.

[AMISTILLILL]

Chauncy Billups wasn't brought in for the regular season. He was brought in for the playoffs. When teams slow it down. When clutchness matters.

Chauncy may have been shooting like crap, but he is /was their best closer. And that is huge in tight ball games. And the playoffs, there are very few blowouts.

Woah, woah, woah...

[REACTION]

Trade Mo Williams and Ryan Gomes for Kevin Martin.

[AMISTILLILL]

Trade Mo Williams and Ryan Gomes for Kevin Martin.

McHale takes a private jet to Olshey's mansion and burns it down at the mere suggestion.

[Clippersfan86]

Trade Mo Williams and Ryan Gomes for Kevin Martin.

I approve. Throw in a future pick or two.

[REACTION]

McHale takes a private jet to Olshey's mansion and burns it down at the mere suggestion.

Fine, and a pick.

[hawkfan]

More like Mo Williams for Stephen Jackson.
Captain Jack would be ok for this season, then ship him out next year.

[Clippersfan86]

In 19 games last year starting for EJ... Foye put up 16, 4 and 5. If he can do that again and Mo can remain our spark plug 6th man.. the team will be in good shape. It's a tall order for him..

[AMISTILLILL]

More like Mo Williams for Stephen Jackson.
Captain Jack would be ok for this season, then ship him out next year.

Clippers would have to take on a lot more than they'd want to in salary, I'm sure... plus they deplete their back court depth sending guys like Williams out. Not to mention Jackson is complaining before it's even mid-season about getting a better contract. He'd know he'd only be a 4th or, at best, 3rd scoring option on that Clippers team behind Paul/Griffin/Butler.

It's awesome to think about though... if they managed to get JR Smith too? The Clippers go from being a laughing stock to one of the meanest, deepest teams in the league with the likes of Kenyon Martin, JR Smith, Stephen Jackson and Reggie Evans in the mix. :bowdown:

[04mzwach]

Clippers curse begins...

[colorz]

I'd be content with someone like Courtney Lee or someone along those lines

[Clippersfan86]

I'd be content with someone like Courtney Lee or someone along those lines

Same.

[305Baller]

If this is not a troll lie, then huge loss for Clipps, but they do have Paul.

[kingBynum]

Karma for flopping against the Nuggetsif thats the case.......What do you think will happen to Rudy Fernandez? :roll:


i hope Billups injury isn't serious...get well soon:rockon:

[Rose]

Ehh. Not that big. Now they can go out and get a real 2 guard. As for the leadership thing, I wasn't aware CP3 retired.:oldlol:

It's sad his career is definitely altered, and potentially over though. I hope he comes back sometime next season.

[AMISTILLILL]

What is the policy on injured players claimed off the amnesty waiver wire? Can they waive him, or get that injured player exception? Any folks well versed in matters of league/CBA rules want to chime in?

[Clippersfan86]

if thats the case.......What do you think will happen to Rudy Fernandez? :roll:


i hope Billups injury isn't serious...get well soon:rockon:

He says that as Gallo suffered a serious injury tonight and is likely out a few months too :oldlol: .

[Clippersfan86]

What is the policy on injured players claimed off the amnesty waiver wire? Can they waive him, or get that injured player exception? Any folks well versed in matters of league/CBA rules want to chime in?

I say don't waive him. He's a GREAT presence and mentor on the team. Our guys look up to him.

[The Real JW]

Are Wilson Chandler, Jared Dudley, Corey Maggette or John Salmons possibilities? I think the Clippers could use a wing player.

[REACTION]

The Clippers still have that $3.8mil TPE from Gordon.

Dorell Wright ($3.8m)
Carlos Delfino ($3.5m)
Courtney Lee ($2.2m)
Tony Allen ($3.1m)
Omri Casspi ($1.3m)
Thabo Sefolosha ($3.3m)
C.J. Miles ($3.7m)
Raja Bell ($3.2m)
Ben Wallace ($2.2m)
George Hill ($1.5m)

[04mzwach]

Yeah, they should of never messed with the Jazz. Should of let them take that three and this wouldn't of happened.

[Clippersfan86]

The Clippers still have that $3.8mil TPE from Gordon.

Dorell Wright ($3.8m)
Carlos Delfino ($3.5m)
Courtney Lee ($2.2m)
Tony Allen ($3.1m)
Omri Casspi ($1.3m)
Thabo Sefolosha ($3.3m)
C.J. Miles ($3.7m)
Raja Bell ($3.2m)
Ben Wallace ($2.2m)
George Hill ($1.5m)

Great job on research. I'd LOVE Wright, Miles or Allen.

[blacknapalm]

out of that list, i like wright, allen, miles and lee, probably in that order. if they sign wright, they should try to run a bit more because that guy really gets it going that way.

i still think they'll roll with foye, williams and gomes unless they go on a losing streak. foye can be really inconsistent but we'll see. he's had an okay season

[Lakers_Kobe_Fan]

The Clippers still have that $3.8mil TPE from Gordon.

Dorell Wright ($3.8m)
Carlos Delfino ($3.5m)
Courtney Lee ($2.2m)
Tony Allen ($3.1m)
Omri Casspi ($1.3m)
Thabo Sefolosha ($3.3m)
C.J. Miles ($3.7m)
Raja Bell ($3.2m)
Ben Wallace ($2.2m)
George Hill ($1.5m)

lol those are not tradeable

[LoneyROY7]

Welcome to the Los Angeles Clippers J.R. Smith.

And sad news about Chauncey...I wish him the best.

[KOBEtherealKing]

The Clippers still have that $3.8mil TPE from Gordon.

Dorell Wright ($3.8m)
Carlos Delfino ($3.5m)
Courtney Lee ($2.2m)
Tony Allen ($3.1m)
Omri Casspi ($1.3m)
Thabo Sefolosha ($3.3m)
C.J. Miles ($3.7m)
Raja Bell ($3.2m)
Ben Wallace ($2.2m)
George Hill ($1.5m)

Hill, allen, thabo, miles, and maybe wright and lee is not a chance their teams would let them go

[Phenith]

Time to work Bledsoe into the rotation.

[AMISTILLILL]

Courtney Lee is extremely coveted, and Tony Allen is at the peak of his popularity in Memphis right now. The rest of the league is starting to take notice of what Boston fans have known for years, concerning this guys overall value to a team on multiple levels.

Honestly, as much as Lee is coveted, he may not be untouchable. Houston wants to move Flynn, and a trade exception might be a nice piece to use as trade bait for another piece for their back court rotation behind Lowry. It's yet to be seen if they intend to bring Dragic back next season.

[LoneyROY7]

Courtney Lee is extremely coveted, and Tony Allen is at the peak of his popularity in Memphis right now. The rest of the league is starting to take notice of what Boston fans have known for years, concerning this guys overall value to a team on multiple levels.

Honestly, as much as Lee is coveted, he may not be untouchable. Houston wants to move Flynn, and a trade exception might be a nice piece to use as trade bait for another piece for their back court rotation behind Lowry. It's yet to be seen if they intend to bring Dragic back next season.

Is Lee really that coveted? He hasn't done much since his stint with the Magic.

[Clippersfan86]

Courtney Lee is extremely coveted, and Tony Allen is at the peak of his popularity in Memphis right now. The rest of the league is starting to take notice of what Boston fans have known for years, concerning this guys overall value to a team on multiple levels.

Honestly, as much as Lee is coveted, he may not be untouchable. Houston wants to move Flynn, and a trade exception might be a nice piece to use as trade bait for another piece for their back court rotation behind Lowry. It's yet to be seen if they intend to bring Dragic back next season.

Bledsoe+next years 1st or future 1st should be enough to get one of those SG/SF's.

[KDthunderup]

Bledsoe + a 1st does not get you Lee, why would the Rockets want more PG's?

[AMISTILLILL]

Is Lee really that coveted? He hasn't done much since his stint with the Magic.

He's averaging almost 10 points, 2 rebounds and an assist off the bench in a little over 20 minutes a game this season. Pretty impressive for a guy who was essentially an afterthought when he was traded away for Vince Carter. I remember a lot of Magic fans up in arms when the franchise parted with Lee, particularly since he showed a lot of promise in his time there. I still feel like that 2009 Finals series would have been very different if that layup (or was it a tip-in?) by Lee had gone in.

I may be overstating his value to the Rockets, but for a team lacking any real identity, I think he's one of few players on that roster who could have a foreseeable future with the team alongside Lowry and Budinger (I'd say Scola but he's getting up there in years).

[Clippersfan86]

Bledsoe + a 1st does not get you Lee, why would the Rockets want more PG's?

Not saying only for Lee dude. For example the Grizzlies have Mayo who can easily step in for Allen. They can use a back up PG after Conley and Bledsoe has great upside.

[RazorBaLade]

is this like the 45th achilles explosion by a clippers player?

[Clippersfan86]

is this like the 45th achilles explosion by a clippers player?

2nd. Felton Brand... now Chauncey.

[Ol Dirty Bastard]

Very sad news for clipper nation if Billups is injured to the point of retirement.
There's always something that goes wrong for LA

[Meticode]

Looks like J.R. Smith to the Clippers get more interesting.

[04mzwach]

I hope Billups goes home, finishes his career there like planned.

[alenleomessi]

Start Mo at SG, Foye his backup, and more playing time for Bledsoe at PG now that he is fully healthy. Butler can play some SG too

[305Baller]

is this like the 45th achilles explosion by a clippers player?

must be something in the water

[All Net]

Be a damn shame if this is the case. A true quality player for so many years.

Agree that this really goes make JR smith to clips more likely now.

[Bigsmoke]

Sucks for Chauncey but the Clippers will be fine.

[bluechox2]

must be something in the water

the mamba spits in it:lol

[soadrules]

Bledsoe+next years 1st or future 1st should be enough to get one of those SG/SF's.

Keep dreaming there buddy.

[chips93]

can we all just agree now, that if the clippers dissapoint in the playoffs, that chauncey wouldnt have made that big a difference? thanks

im so sick of every team complaining about how injuries derailed their season. they are part of the game.

sad way for billups to go out though, but he ought to be happy with his career as a whole.

[Ol Dirty Bastard]

This is no way for any pro athlete to go out. Really hope for the best for Billups.

Who else think Randy Foye should start in order to keep Mo as that 6th man?
Incorporate Bledsoe in the rotation and possibly play Butler at the 2 when needed.

[All Net]

If anything this opens up the door for JR smith to the clippers....

[Whoah10115]

This is no way for any pro athlete to go out. Really hope for the best for Billups.

Who else think Randy Foye should start in order to keep Mo as that 6th man?
Incorporate Bledsoe in the rotation and possibly play Butler at the 2 when needed.



Agree on all points. I think Billups will be back. Hope so.


And Mo Williams is too valuable as an almost clone of Jason Terry. Keep him there.

[Clippersfan86]

This is no way for any pro athlete to go out. Really hope for the best for Billups.

Who else think Randy Foye should start in order to keep Mo as that 6th man?
Incorporate Bledsoe in the rotation and possibly play Butler at the 2 when needed.

That is what's going to happen. Foye's been named starter. He put up like 16, 4 and 5 last year in about 20 games when Eric Gordon went down. So he should be adequate. The Clippers won't have trouble replacing his production with the glut of guards they have. The big problem is replacing his poise and leadership. I understand he can provide some of that from the bench but it's not the same.

[swi7ch]

A spot just opened up for JR Smith!

[Fiasco]

If Foye becomes a starter on this team we're not going to win anything.

[dab0yech0]

If Foye becomes a starter on this team we're not going to win anything.
Yep. Foye put up decent numbers but on like 39 percent shooting as a starter on a losing team. I think its time to go after jr he has ice in his veins n when hot will help us blow teams away

[Clippersfan86]

Yep. Foye put up decent numbers but on like 39 percent shooting as a starter on a losing team. I think its time to go after jr he has ice in his veins n when hot will help us blow teams away

He's not the answer this season dude. At earliest he will likely be available in March. We can't count on him. The team needs to step up as if we AREN'T going to get help. If Foye, Bledsoe step up... we will be just fine. People act like Billups is the difference between contending and not contending :facepalm .

The Clippers statistically get a lot better when Billups goes to the bench.

[Kiddlovesnets]

Best luck to Mr Bigshot, one of the greatest PGs in 2000s.
:(

[ihatetimthomas]

He's not the answer this season dude. At earliest he will likely be available in March. We can't count on him. The team needs to step up as if we AREN'T going to get help. If Foye, Bledsoe step up... we will be just fine. People act like Billups is the difference between contending and not contending :facepalm .

The Clippers statistically get a lot better when Billups goes to the bench.

lol, yea we will see who you want more come playoff time. Billups or a couple of unproven role players. You are just trying to downplay losing him. Its a huge loss. You lose a proven vet and NBA champ. What he brings goes beyond the stat sheet. I think if Billups is trully out, this is a huge blow to the Clippers. You cant replace him with Foye and Bledsoe.

[niko]

Terrible way to end.

[M.V.W.]

Terrible! I wish him the best. However, I hope the Clippers land a solid true SG.

[Fudge]

lol, yea we will see who you want more come playoff time. Billups or a couple of unproven role players. You are just trying to downplay losing him. Its a huge loss. You lose a proven vet and NBA champ. What he brings goes beyond the stat sheet. I think if Billups is trully out, this is a huge blow to the Clippers. You cant replace him with Foye and Bledsoe.
:applause:

[Clippersfan86]

lol, yea we will see who you want more come playoff time. Billups or a couple of unproven role players. You are just trying to downplay losing him. Its a huge loss. You lose a proven vet and NBA champ. What he brings goes beyond the stat sheet. I think if Billups is trully out, this is a huge blow to the Clippers. You cant replace him with Foye and Bledsoe.

I already said it's a huge loss. It's the intangibles we lose. I just don't think people are being realistic when they say this is enough to dash a shot at deep playoff run or WCF. Without Billups this team still has a hell of a lot more than 90+ percent of the teams in the league.

We lost something that's VERY hard to replace. The poise, leadership and experience. Caron Butler was a part of a championship team, Mo Williams had a few deep playoff runs with Lebron, Kenyon was a part of deep playoff runs including finals for NJ and conference finals for Denver. CP3 has playoff experience.

We've added enough high experience guys to where the team will be able to make it without Billups. Will it be harder? Yes. Does it dash hopes? Hell no. Clippers still have a GREAT shot at a deep playoff run.

SG was actually the weak link this year. Billups is easier to replace with the bench than CP3, Butler, Griffin or DJ. When Billups go to the bench the Clippers offense skyrockets. The defense takes a small hit but nonetheless the numbers prove the team can at least survive without him.

[hoopaddict08]

One of my all time favorite players in sports. I would hate to see him go out like this.

[04mzwach]

I'll never forget that spin move around halfcourt he did on CP3 when the Nuggets beat N.O. to death. That was so smooth. He just took what he wanted that game. :applause:

[Smoke117]

He'll retire. He's too old to come back from that.

[dab0yech0]

He's not the answer this season dude. At earliest he will likely be available in March. We can't count on him. The team needs to step up as if we AREN'T going to get help. If Foye, Bledsoe step up... we will be just fine. People act like Billups is the difference between contending and not contending :facepalm .

The Clippers statistically get a lot better when Billups goes to the bench.

I think Foye and Bledsoe really will help. You can't really count on those guys though because they have suspect jumpers. Foye will be blazing hot one day, ice cold another day. Bledsoe I don't even trust his jumper at all.

Point is, Billups hits big shots at clutch moments and I dont know if Bledsoe or Foye will be able to do that. The game winner against Dallas, the barrage of clutch 3s against Denver, the way he got to the line in crunch time against Utah, the back to back 3s last night in regulation. I just don't see Bledsoe or Foye being able to draw calls or hit the big 3s like Chauncey did.

JR on the other hand is a proven scorer I think he come in and give us scoring when the offense gets stagnant especially when we play a zone and imagine how we will easily bust the zone when CP3 has both Mo and JR on the wings. Also I know people bring up character issues but I think having Billups, Kmart, CP3 on the team, they will be able to keep him in check. All those guys played together before so I don't think it will be a problem.

[G-train]

He's not the answer this season dude. At earliest he will likely be available in March. We can't count on him. The team needs to step up as if we AREN'T going to get help. If Foye, Bledsoe step up... we will be just fine. People act like Billups is the difference between contending and not contending :facepalm .

The Clippers statistically get a lot better when Billups goes to the bench.

Pretty sure the clippers 2 best teams had Billups in lineup.

[Clippersfan86]

Pretty sure the clippers 2 best teams had Billups in lineup.

The offense skyrockets with Mo Williams over Billups. Takes a hit defensively. With Foye... the defense improves big and the offense takes a decent hit. Basically Billups brought better overall balance... but the contributions CAN be made up.

I'm not by any means saying Clippers are better off without him. I'm just saying the team has enough guards to at least fill in production wise and that they are by no means out of contention based on this injury. There are certain things Williams/Foye can't replace... but it won't be enough to stop a very good, amazingly constructed team like this one.

Once the Clippers integrate Kenyon into the rotation... the team is going to keep improving as they build chemistry. This team is nowhere near peaked right now yet is off to the best start since 1974.

[G-train]

http://hangtime.blogs.nba.com/2012/02/07/clippers-may-miss-billups-on-d/

[Clippersfan86]

http://hangtime.blogs.nba.com/2012/02/07/clippers-may-miss-billups-on-d/

Thanks for numbers.... good read but I wasn't wrong about the numbers. Clippers offense improves with Mo, defense gets worse. Also with Foye instead of Billups (combined with CP3) the Clippers defense is actually better though they don't show that line up here. So as I said above... Billups provides the best balance of offense and defense. That being said... people are overreacting.

It's a big blow... but the Clippers still have a good shot to contend this year.

[SlayerEnraged]

Thanks goodness mine was only a sprained achilles...Probably 3-4months ago I played pick up ball and wasn't even trying that hard, but I went up high for a rebound and uncharacteristically, I just totally landdd wrong...It felt like I was done but luckily I iced it within like a minute...Then I went home and iced it for hours straight while elevating my foot on a pillow. This was the scariest injury of my life. Hopefully Chauncey gets good treatment and it ends up not quite being as serious as they think. Good luck Chauncey Buh-Buh-BBBBillups!

[Clippersfan86]

Thanks goodness mine was only a sprained achilles...Probably 3-4months ago I played pick up ball and wasn't even trying that hard, but I went up high for a rebound and uncharacteristically, I just totally landdd wrong...It felt like I was done but luckily I iced it within like a minute...Then I went home and iced it for hours straight while elevating my foot on a pillow. This was the scariest injury of my life. Hopefully Chauncey gets good treatment and it ends up not quite being as serious as they think. Good luck Chauncey Buh-Buh-BBBBillups!

Damn crazy. I had an achilles injury but not sure what it was. I sprinted without warming up and heard a loud pop in my achilles. It was a deep burning sensation and for about 2-3 weeks it was sore and I had a limp. I didn't go to a doctor and it healed up on it's own. Probably a strain?

[demons2005]

man billups not playing this season? that is crazy. too bad he had a good career and was one of the more likeable guys on the clippers

The Clippers are really going to regret trading Gordon

[niko]

I think Foye and Bledsoe really will help. You can't really count on those guys though because they have suspect jumpers. Foye will be blazing hot one day, ice cold another day. Bledsoe I don't even trust his jumper at all.

Point is, Billups hits big shots at clutch moments and I dont know if Bledsoe or Foye will be able to do that. The game winner against Dallas, the barrage of clutch 3s against Denver, the way he got to the line in crunch time against Utah, the back to back 3s last night in regulation. I just don't see Bledsoe or Foye being able to draw calls or hit the big 3s like Chauncey did.

JR on the other hand is a proven scorer I think he come in and give us scoring when the offense gets stagnant especially when we play a zone and imagine how we will easily bust the zone when CP3 has both Mo and JR on the wings. Also I know people bring up character issues but I think having Billups, Kmart, CP3 on the team, they will be able to keep him in check. All those guys played together before so I don't think it will be a problem.
JR has yet to commit to the clippers, right? Did i miss the signing?

[Clippersfan86]

man billups not playing this season? that is crazy. too bad he had a good career and was one of the more likeable guys on the clippers

The Clippers are really going to regret trading Gordon

Clippers are off to their best start since 1974 and 2nd best start in franchise history. Gordon has been injured all year, minny pick may not even be lotto pick now, kaman and aminu sucj this year. What would they possibly regret? Stop reaching.

[Rnbizzle]

Clippers curse for you, it had to happen some time you know..

[chazzy]

Official now, out for 8 months.. tough

[Clippersfan86]

Official now, out for 8 months.. tough

Normally its 12 months minimum. Could be back at start of next year.

[niko]

Clippers are off to their best start since 1974 and 2nd best start in franchise history. Gordon has been injured all year, minny pick may not even be lotto pick now, kaman and aminu sucj this year. What would they possibly regret? Stop reaching.
No you could have got Paul without trading Gordon, you caved. Just like we could have gotten Melo without Gallo. It's not true, but people like to make up their own little mental scenarios so they can badmouth your acquisition. DOn't bother arguing.

[dab0yech0]

Clippers curse for you, it had to happen some time you know..

Cant wait to read Bill Simmons piece

[Clippersfan86]

No you could have got Paul without trading Gordon, you caved. Just like we could have gotten Melo without Gallo. It's not true, but people like to make up their own little mental scenarios so they can badmouth your acquisition. DOn't bother arguing.

Clippers don't regret jack, that's all I'm saying. 16 and 7 against top strength of schedule in league. Very good for a team with 3 new starters and multiple new pieces with no time to gel.

[demons2005]

No you could have got Paul without trading Gordon, you caved. Just like we could have gotten Melo without Gallo. It's not true, but people like to make up their own little mental scenarios so they can badmouth your acquisition. DOn't bother arguing.
I'm not even saying that but to me Billups is a huge reason they've done so well. In that last game there is no way they win without Billups raining threes and getting them back in the game. The same can be said in many of their wins. The problem with their trade was they mortgaged their future for a 2-year rental of the most overrated player in the league. It MAY work out by Griffin's improvement alone but he would have to become better than KG and fast. What I do know is I'd rather have a stud young SG whos probably the third best SG in the league already and a second first round pick than a hobbled 26 year old who only plays hard when he feels like it and a history of losing in the playoffs.

[niko]

Clippers don't regret jack, that's all I'm saying. 16 and 7 against top strength of schedule in league. Very good for a team with 3 new starters and multiple new pieces with no time to gel.
oh, i agree with you. my point is no matter how right you are people will deny it and make shit up to counter u.

[Clippersfan86]

You're a fool to think CP3 is a rental. Dude is incredibly happy. Loves his team, loves the coaches, loves the city. No other team would be built around CP3 as perfectly either. He's a Clipper for life, deal with it.

[Clippersfan86]

oh, i agree with you. my point is no matter how right you are people will deny it and make shit up to counter u.

Yea. So many haters right now.

[insidehoops]

Yeah, Clippers today confirmed his season is over:

http://www.insidehoops.com/blog/?p=9222

[SpecialQue]

Yeah, Clippers today confirmed his season is over:

http://www.insidehoops.com/blog/?p=9222

Fuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuck.

The Clippers Curse is a real thing. Better light some candles, sacrifice a goat or SOMETHING.

[Fiasco]

**** me.

[SpecialQue]

So how many season-ending or career-injuries is that for this team?

Come on CP3, take this team to the finals to end this shit once and for all!

[Clippersfan86]

Lol Specialque. Guess Hawks have a curse too! Every NBA team has a curse this year. Clippers passed it on!

[REACTION]

The problem with their trade was they mortgaged their future for a 2-year rental of the most overrated player in the league.
So many errors for one sentence.

[Derka]

A complete shame to end his career this way, especially on a team that needs leadership of his type.

[Clippersfan86]

Clippers need to win a ring for Chauncey this year. Send him off with number two. CP3 and Mo said their biggest mentors coming up was Billups. Dedicate this season for him.

[LA_Showtime]

I feel bad for Chauncey, and this does hurt the Clippers depth, but realistically he has been horrible this season and giving Williams and Foye more minutes is going to help the team.

[DirtySanchez]

Stop the BS Clips curse thing...this really sucks for Billups man.
If he retires come on now he deserves better. Billups has always been a great team player in the NBA. Stand out cat. If he is out....good luck Chauncey and thanks for all the great moments you have provided with us through the years.

This f*cking bites....

[Smoke117]

This isn't really that big of a loss to the Clippers. Chauncey was a major chucker. Yeah it sucks he got hurt but he wasn't exactly a stud on the Clippers. The only reason he was still relevant now is the rule changes. They helped this older cats out. With Hand checking rules Billups wouldn't be able to do shit. Again it sucks he got hurt, but he won't come back from this. Did Elton Brand? He was 27 and in his prime and his career was never the same. Billups is done, period.

[chips93]

No you could have got Paul without trading Gordon, you caved. Just like we could have gotten Melo without Gallo. It's not true, but people like to make up their own little mental scenarios so they can badmouth your acquisition. DOn't bother arguing.

well, the clippers were bidding against themselves. i thought that they could have gotten a better deal. (they still got a great one).

[WeGetRing2012]

Huge loss for the Clippers. Chauncey provided veteran leadership and he was an excellent free throw & 3 point shooter. I though Billups was the X factor on this team. JR Smith would not be able to fill his role at all and I would be surprised if the Clippers sign him.

[WeGetRing2012]

I'm not even saying that but to me Billups is a huge reason they've done so well. In that last game there is no way they win without Billups raining threes and getting them back in the game. The same can be said in many of their wins. The problem with their trade was they mortgaged their future for a 2-year rental of the most overrated player in the league. It MAY work out by Griffin's improvement alone but he would have to become better than KG and fast. What I do know is I'd rather have a stud young SG whos probably the third best SG in the league already and a second first round pick than a hobbled 26 year old who only plays hard when he feels like it and a history of losing in the playoffs.

Yes!!!!! CP3 seems to only play up to the competition and his game (pick & roll) is easy to stop in a playoff series. I might be in the majority here but I honestly don't think CP3 will win a ring being the star player.

[DuMa]

http://www.myfacewhen.net/uploads/1885-sad-frog.jpg

[jbryan1984]

Sucks for the Clipps but I think they will be OK still. They are very fun to watch this year and I think they can go deep in the playoffs. Looking forward to tomorrow Clipper fans! Kyrie vs. CP3.

[Micku]

The Clippers are going to miss Billups. He was clutch for the Clippers and made a few plays, but apparently his most important contribute to the team was his leadership. CP3 and Mo Williams commented on his leadership in the lockerroom, and he always had a history of it.

With that said, as long as CP3, Griffin, and DJ are okay, then it wasn't that big of a lost. But I thought that Billups did a very good job on the SG spot this year, and potentially could've gone deep in the playoffs this year.

The spot just open for the SG position tho. I dunno about JR Smith because he's immature. Until the Clippers get another SG, Randy Foye will get more mins. And Eric Bledsoe.

[b0bab0i]

Chauncey says he's not retiring yet.


“I will be back,” Billups told Yahoo! Sports by phone. “I’m not done. I’m not retiring. I will definitely be back. This has been the story of my career, coming back, fighting, scrapping and I will play again.”

http://sports.yahoo.com/nba/news?slug=aw-wojnarowski_chauncey_billups_injury_020712

[qrich]

It's a big loss but I still expect for Vinny to bring Mo off the bench and play Foye at the starting two spot, though Mo will probably get the majority of the minutes. Also gives Bledsoe more playing time as well. This move means the Clips will probably chase JR harder, but don't think it'd affect JR's decision. Just hope the Clips use the TPE's they got in the Paul trade to acquire a guard or two and apply for a hardship waiver (if the current CBA still has them) so they can have a 16-man roster instead of 15 with Chauncey done.

A couple of moves I'd try to make is Ryan Gomes + Brian Cook + 2012 2nd Rounder to the Raptors for Linas Kleiza + 2012 2nd Rounder. Raps shave a year off of Kleiza's contract while the Clippers gain an early 2nd, which could very well be Tony Wroten or Terrence Ross from Washington, both of which would be solid additions imo.

Paul - Foye - Butler - Griffin - Jordan
Bledsoe - Williams - Kleiza - Martin - Evans

Another move I'd try for is the bigger tpe and a 2nd to the Bucks for Carlos Delfino. Delfino's an expirer that can play both wing positions.

Paul - Delfino - Butler - Griffin - Jordan
Bledsoe - Williams - Foye - Gomes - Martin - Evans

An extreme move I wouldn't mind, which I know most Clipper fans will dislike, is Randy Foye (agreement that is cut and returns to Clips) + Ryan Gomes + Brian Cook to the Charlotte Bobcats for Corey Maggette + 2nd. Maggs does have 2 years, but Clips can amnesty him after this season and make him an expirer.

Paul - Foye - Butler - Griffin - Jordan
Bledsoe - Williams - Maggette - Martin - Evans

[Ol Dirty Bastard]

Very sad news but I doubt he will retire. Billups is 35, give him the 8 months to recover maybe more time even and he can come back strong. Clipper or not.

Another thing about Billups being gone from play is his free throw percentage plus his ability to get to the line. He pretty much has it down when it comes to getting a foul called on him, even though some of those calls are BS.

Sucks but this team should still be able to perform well.

[BGriffin's Dad]

Very sad news but I doubt he will retire. Billups is 35, give him the 8 months to recover maybe more time even and he can come back strong. Clipper or not.

Another thing about Billups being gone from play is his free throw percentage plus his ability to get to the line. He pretty much has it down when it comes to getting a foul called on him, even though some of those calls are BS.

Sucks but this team should still be able to perform well.

yeah but at least we still have a solid FT shooter in Mo (.867 career)

[WeGetRing2012]

yeah but at least we still have a solid FT shooter in Mo (.867 career)

But Billups is a calm leader who shows up when the teams needs it. Just look at the Denver & Dallas games Clippers loose if it wasn't for Billups. And he also has something that no one on the team has. HE IS MR BIG SHOT! During the playoffs teams need players that can make those big shots. Now the Clippers have no one who can do that. I never said it on the forum but the Billups signing was just as big as the CP3 signing for the Clips.

[HylianNightmare]

just get Jr smith

[clipps]

But Billups is a calm leader who shows up when the teams needs it. Just look at the Denver & Dallas games Clippers loose if it wasn't for Billups. And he also has something that no one on the team has. HE IS MR BIG SHOT! During the playoffs teams need players that can make those big shots. Now the Clippers have no one who can do that. I never said it on the forum but the Billups signing was just as big as the CP3 signing for the Clips.

Yea, because CP3 isn't clutch and won't hit any big shots.

[Clippersfan86]

Man... I love Billups. Such a class act. I want the team to keep him as an assistant at least and sign him another year as a player.


[B]His contract with the Clippers runs out after this season. Billups said he wants to return to the Clippers

[roffie]

[QUOTE=Clippersfan86]
[B]His contract with the Clippers runs out after this season. Billups said he wants to return to the Clippers

[clipps]

Losing Billups is definitely a big blow, but it shouldn't be enough to keep the Clippers from having a successful season. They will still have one of the best records in the league, win the division and do some serious damage in the Playoffs. It's really comferting to know that Billups isn't going out that easily and wants to come back next year. If the Clippers FO continue to do what they've been doing, they will make the necessary moves to make them serious Championship contenders next year. Giving up on Billups will be a terrible idea.

[Clippersfan86]

For any of you Billups fans...... tonight on the Clippers pregame he's going to have a 1 on 1 interview with Michael Eaves. It's on Fox Sports West.

[senelcoolidge]

This is just more to motivate the Clippers. The media and haters are just fueling this team. Chauncey is a big loss, but the Clippers will do fine. They have plenty of guard depth.