Josh Smith, Clippers Coach Engaged in Profanity-Laced Argument

The tensions that have been building up in the Los Angeles Clippers' locker room have finally exploded after a tough loss against the Toronto Raptors. Dan Woike of the Orange County Register reported that Josh Smith and an unidentified Clippers coach got into a profanity-laced shouting match after the Clippers fell 91-80.

Woike reported:

"Josh Smith and an unspecified Clipper coach were involved in a frustration-fueled argument following the Clippers' 91-80 loss to Toronto Sunday. 

Profanities and yelling made their way through the cement walls separating the Clipper locker room from an adjacent room where the media was waiting to speak to head coach Doc Rivers."

Rivers offered vague comments about the Clippers' locker room, stating, "It's (like any) locker room after you lose and play like that. Guys are upset. That's about it."

The Clippers have lost seven of their last nine games. In the game against the Golden State Warriors, the Clippers lost after leading by 23 points. They are now below .500 with a record of 6-7, which is the worst start for the Clippers since adding Chris Paul.

"It's pretty frustrating. We've dropped three in a row. I think it's pretty normal to be frustrated. But, we can't let that frustration affect us negatively moving forward," Blake Griffin said. "I think we need to do a good job of sitting down, being real and understanding what the real problems are moving forward. But, frustration is to be expected."

J.J. Redick added, "It's because we're losing. Things happen during the game, and your frustration level increases or decreases based on the final result. It's a level of toleration you have either with yourself of other people. ...The end result dictates your mindset."

Smith has had a lackluster season so far, averaging career-lows of 14.8 minutes, 4.9 points, 3.8 rebounds and 1.3 assists. In Sunday's game, he was one-for-four with two points, eight rebounds, two assists and one steal.

Next up for the Clippers will be the Denver Nuggets Tuesday night at 9:00 p.m. ET.