Blake Griffin, Los Angeles Clippers: We'll Get 'Em Next Year

Why?

Is it because having two good teams in L.A. is one too many? Is it because the Clippers enjoyed one great year in 2006 and are only allowed one every century or so? Why do the basketball gods dislike the Clippers so much?

The team was coming together and playing exciting basketball, which was motivated in part by a goal to reach .500 before Blake Griffin's return. That return was scheduled to be later this month. Turns out we won't see Griffin until the 2010-2011 season.

Why?

An examination Tuesday revealed his recovery wasn't progressing properly, the Clippers announced Wednesday in a statement. Apparently Griffin was increasing his workload in preparation for his return and felt pain in his knee. Griffin and the team opted for surgery, which puts an end to his season before it ever began.

Repeat after me, Clipper fans: There is no curse. Again: There is no curse. Once more: There is no curse!  There is, however, unbelievably bad luck. The Clippers have had their share.

However, it's time for the Clipper faithful to look for the good in today's announcement. You have to squint hard, tilt your head just so, and not move too much, but good news is there.

Now with Griffin officially not debuting this year, we can put all the silly Marcus Camby trade rumors to bed. "Ponce de la Camby" is here this season and hopefully beyond. Sit your young basketball player down in front of the TV, and tell him to watch Camby if you want him or her to learn how to defend.

Without Griffin, the team won't have to worry about adjusting to his game while the games matter. This team has come together, and although they would have certainly adjusted to Griffin, this announcement makes it clear that this is the team this year, for better or worse.

Finally, the core of this group that's playing exciting basketball is under contract for next year. We won't get to see a Davis, Gordon, Kaman, Thornton, and Griffin starting five this year, but we will next.

Right, basketball gods?