Doc Rivers Says Clippers Will Have Ball Movement with Chris Paul Joining Rockets

During a press conference Tuesday, Los Angeles Clippers head coach Doc Rivers attempted to spin Chris Paul's departure as a positive for the team, arguing the Clippers will "have ball movement" with the nine-time All-Star gone. 

Fox Sports West shared Rivers comments as he discussed the stylistic differences the Clippers will embrace in 2017-18:

"

Biggest difference in style of play with Chris Paul gone ... 'We'll have ball movement' -- @DocRivers @LAClippers @HoopsonFOX pic.twitter.com/ICowfwyAG6

— FOX Sports West (@FoxSportsWest) July 18, 2017"

Rivers seemingly implies Paul prevented the Clippers from emphasizing ball movement, which is somewhat unfair to the 32-year-old point guard.

Paul averaged 86.2 touches per game, the eighth-highest total in the league. Among the top 10 players in average touches, his average seconds per touch (4.98) was fourth-lowest. It's not as if Paul slowed the game to a crawl every time he had the ball in his hands.

The Clippers also had the fourth-best offensive rating (110.3) in the league, so Paul's presence hardly hindered Los Angeles' scoring potential.

The Ringer's Kevin O'Connor took issue with Rivers' general sentiment regarding his strategic approach as well:

In an interview with The Undefeated's Marc J. Spears, Rivers said he believed the Clippers needed to reshape the roster after back-to-back first-round playoff exits. 

While trading Paul helped Rivers achieve that aim, it arguably adds even more pressure to deliver on the court. Rivers was instrumental in putting this team together, and sooner or later he'll have to answer for it should the Clippers continue to disappoint in the postseason.

All statistics via NBA.com.