Blake Griffin Discusses Hard Fouls, Possible Retaliation

Los Angeles Clippers forward Blake Griffin is typically on the receiving end of many hard fouls, but the All-Star stud doesn't intend to take it for much longer.

According to Arash Markazi of ESPNLosAngeles.com, the University of Oklahoma product said that he will "probably" retaliate at some point if he feels it is warranted.

The subject of hard fouls came up after the Clippers' preseason game against the Utah Jazz Friday night. Jazz forward Trevor Booker committed a foul against Griffin and a melee ensued, as seen at the 1:07 mark of this NBA.com video:

While Griffin clearly felt as though that foul was excessive, not everyone agreed. Jared Greenberg of NBA TV downplayed the impact of Booker's infraction:

Jazz radio announcer David Locke agreed and suggested that Griffin's immense size and strength make harder fouling a necessity:

Griffin showed restraint after initially looking like he might hit Booker. While Griffin claims that retaliation could be in store moving forward, he seems somewhat conflicted about it, per Markazi.

"On one hand, everybody tells me to do something; on the other hand, people tell me to not complain and to play ball," Griffin said. "You're not going to please everybody but I just got to do whatever I think is right and use my judgment."

Some might view Griffin's levelheaded reactions as a lack of toughness, but Clippers point guard Chris Paul admires him for not putting his team at a disadvantage, according to Markazi.

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He's getting real close to it. I'm glad (he didn't)because we need him. A lot of times in those situations, we need him a lot more than the other team needs the person that usually (aggravates him). It's tough. Blake is unbelievable to show that patience. I think that's one of the most selfless things that he does all season long because even though he wants to react personally, he sacrifices for the team.

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Griffin is in a tough spot since he has a lot of things to consider when it comes to retaliating. He shouldn't let other players take liberties with him, but he also needs to be on the court in order for L.A. to have success.

It will be interesting to see if Griffin displays a more aggressive side during the upcoming regular season. If he does, then he may be an even bigger force to be reckoned with.

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