In response to reports that Chris Paul was unhappy with being linked to the firing of former coach Vinny Del Negro, Los Angeles Clippers management on Friday publicly claimed responsibility for the decision. "The decision not to extend a contract to Vinny Del Negro was an organizational decision from the top down," Clippers vice president of basketball operations Gary Sacks said. "Our front office evaluated the season and Vinny's three years here before making this move, and our conclusion and feeling was that we needed a change." ESPN The Magazine's Chris Broussard reported on Friday that Paul was upset with public comments made by Clippers owner Donald T. Sterling to the Los Angeles Times suggesting the Clippers dismissed Del Negro to appease star players on the team. Sterling was not available for comment. Paul becomes an unrestricted free agent on July 1 and the Clippers have been widely considered the favorite to retain his services. As Paul's existing team, the Clippers can offer the All-Star point guard a five-year, $108 million contract, a longer and more lucrative deal than any other suitor. Source: ESPN LA
