Last Updated on December 23, 2024 by Mathew Diekhake

The Los Angeles Clippers, a team with a history of ups and downs, has seen several standout players and figures who have left a lasting legacy. While historically overshadowed by the Lakers, the Clippers have carved out their identity, especially in recent years. Here are the notable legends and key figures in Clippers history:

Franchise Legends:

1. Chris Paul (“CP3”)

  • Position: Point Guard
  • Years with Clippers: 2011–2017
  • Key Achievements:
    • 6× NBA All-Star with the Clippers (2012–2016, 2017)
    • 4× All-NBA First Team with the Clippers (2012–2015)
    • 6× NBA All-Defensive Team selections (First Team: 2012–2014, 2015; Second Team: 2016, 2017)
    • Led the Clippers during the “Lob City” era, transforming them into perennial playoff contenders.

2. Blake Griffin

  • Position: Power Forward
  • Years with Clippers: 2009–2018
  • Key Achievements:
    • 5× NBA All-Star with the Clippers (2011–2015)
    • NBA Rookie of the Year (2011)
    • 3× All-NBA Second Team (2012–2014)
    • Iconic for his highlight-reel dunks and athleticism, Griffin was a cornerstone of the “Lob City” era.

3. DeAndre Jordan

  • Position: Center
  • Years with Clippers: 2008–2018
  • Key Achievements:
    • 2× NBA All-Star (2017, 2018)
    • 2× NBA All-Defensive First Team (2015, 2016)
    • NBA All-NBA First Team (2016)
    • NBA Rebounding Leader (2014, 2015)
    • Known for his defensive dominance and spectacular alley-oops as part of “Lob City.”

4. Elton Brand

  • Position: Power Forward
  • Years with Clippers: 2001–2008
  • Key Achievements:
    • 2× NBA All-Star (2002, 2006)
    • All-NBA Second Team (2006)
    • Helped lead the Clippers to a rare playoff appearance in 2006, where they reached the Western Conference Semifinals.

5. Bob McAdoo

  • Position: Power Forward/Center
  • Years with the Franchise (Buffalo Braves): 1972–1976
  • Key Achievements:
    • NBA MVP (1975)
    • 3× NBA Scoring Champion (1974–1976)
    • 3× NBA All-Star with the Braves (1974–1976)
    • The franchise’s first true superstar, McAdoo laid the foundation for its early history.

6. Jamal Crawford

  • Position: Shooting Guard
  • Years with Clippers: 2012–2017
  • Key Achievements:
    • 2× NBA Sixth Man of the Year with the Clippers (2014, 2016)
    • Renowned for his scoring off the bench and clutch shooting.

Modern Era Stars:

7. Kawhi Leonard

  • Position: Small Forward
  • Years with Clippers: 2019–Present
  • Key Achievements:
    • 2× NBA All-Star with the Clippers (2020, 2021)
    • 2× All-NBA First Team (2020, 2021)
    • NBA All-Defensive First Team (2020, 2021)
    • Key leader of the Clippers’ first-ever Western Conference Finals appearance (2021).

8. Paul George (“PG13”)

  • Position: Small Forward
  • Years with Clippers: 2019–Present
  • Key Achievements:
    • 3× NBA All-Star with the Clippers (2020–2022)
    • All-NBA Third Team (2021)
    • Known for his scoring ability and defensive versatility.

Honored Figures:

  • Doc Rivers (Coach): Led the Clippers during the “Lob City” era and helped establish the team’s reputation as a Western Conference contender.
  • Donald Sterling Era Reform: Despite controversies in ownership, the franchise has transformed under Steve Ballmer’s ownership into one of the NBA’s premier organizations.

The Clippers’ legacy has evolved significantly over the years, from the early struggles of the Buffalo Braves era to the excitement of “Lob City” and the modern-day competitiveness with Kawhi Leonard and Paul George. These players and moments have defined the franchise’s journey.