The return of Chris Paul to Staples Center versus the L.A. Clippers on Monday was a highly anticipated one as it marked the first time he’ll go up against his former team in their home court. While the Houston Rockets point guard received a warm reception from the crowd and former teammates, the game turned out to be hotly-contested one especially in the fourth quarter.

Emotions ran high as neither team gave an inch and both sides wanted to win the match. Blake Griffin was even involved in a heated exchange of words with Paul and Mike D’Antoni that resulted to technical fouls slapped on him and the veteran head coach.

Apparently, D’Antoni uttered a NSFW message to the five-time All-Star forward which heightened tensions further, according to ClutchPoints’ own Tomer Azarly.

Both players proved that they can co-exist on the floor during their tenure as teammates, adding more shock to the fiery exchange they had. It was indeed unexpected but being caught up in the heat of the moment, coupled with the intensity they've always had while competing, could be the reasons why the altercation happened.

Griffin and the Clippers had the last laugh on the night as they came out with the victory, 113-102. The 28-year-old Oklahoma product led his team's charge as he finished with 29 points, on 11-of-22 shooting from the field, and added 10 rebounds and six assists. The Rockets, who did not have James Harden once again, received solid performances from Paul and Eric Gordon as they both recorded 19 points each and a combined 10 rebounds and 10 assists.

With both teams scheduled to meet again on February 28 and March 15, it will be very interesting to see how competitive the matchup will be and if the players will once again show that there's no love lost between them.