After a thorough investigation, the Los Angeles Clippers have finally suspended Blake Griffin for punching the team's equipment manager outside of a restaurant in Toronto in January.
Griffin will serve a four-game suspension without pay, and his wages will be withheld for a fifth game as well although he will be eligible to play.
From the Clippers:
The L.A. Clippers announced today that forward Blake Griffin has been suspended without pay for four games for striking a team employee on Jan. 23 and his wages will be withheld for one additional game for injuries he sustained. The NBA has assisted us in this process.
The Clippers will donate the salary from the five games to charities focused on disadvantaged youth in Los Angeles. At his request, Blake will support this activity with his time.
We have made it clear that this conduct has no place in the Clippers organization. Blake is remorseful and has apologized for his actions. He is a valued member of our Clippers family and we support him as he rejoins the team. He understands his actions have consequences, and is eager to get back to work with his teammates, the organization and Clipper Nation which starts immediately with rehab, appearances and attendance at games.
For our team and organization, it is time to move forward which begins today and ultimately concludes when we have Blake back on the court.
As the press release points out, Griffin has expressed regret about his actions and has openly apologized. Clippers head coach Doc Rivers has forgiven him and believes that the team should move on, which the release also states.
Griffin will serve the suspension when he returns from injury, which could reportedly be in the next two months.
