*Los Angeles Clippers star Blake Griffin will have to sit out four games for punching team trainer Matias Testi at a Toronto restaurant in January.
The fight already left him with a broken hand that will require a 4-6 week absence. The team announced today that it will tack on an additional 4-game suspension.
Below is the joint statement from L.A. Clippers owner Steve Ballmer and President of Basketball Operations and Head Coach Doc Rivers:
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.
Griffin, who was close friends with Testi, has since apologized for the incident.
The Clippers are currently 35-17 and in 4th place in the West.
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