Paul Pierce already playing a big role with Clippers

Former Celtic Paul Pierce’s first assist as a member of the Clippers: convincing DeAndre Jordan to reneg on a verbal commitment to the Dallas Mavericks, and getting him to return to Los Angeles.Alex Brandon/Associated Press/File 2015

LAS VEGAS — Paul Pierce arrived Sunday night at the NBA Players Awards in a purple suit, black shades, and all smiles.

He was happy about not only signing with his hometown Clippers, but also recruiting DeAndre Jordan to return to the club.

Pierce has already scored big for his new team.

“It’s been pretty wild,” Pierce said of convincing Jordan to pass up a max contract offer with the Dallas Mavericks and return to Los Angeles. “I think that whole saga took a form and shade of its own. It got a lot bigger than it was supposed to be.

“I made my decision to be a Clipper. DeAndre changed his mind to be a Clipper.”

After verbally committing to the Mavericks, Jordan had second thoughts and began contacting Clippers players. A contingent of players, led by Pierce, Chris Paul, and Blake Griffin, headed to Houston to speak to Jordan.

“I wasn’t there last year with that team, so I kind of sat in and voiced what I thought but I was on the outside looking in,” Pierce said. “I think guys cleared the air if there was any tension, but I think a lot of the media made it more than it was.”

After spending 15 seasons in Boston, Pierce played one season in Brooklyn after a trade, and then signed last summer with Washington. Despite an impressive playoff performance and raves from teammates, Pierce opted out of his Wizards deal this spring and signed a three-year deal with the Clippers.

“It’s a dream come true to be able to come home, finally,” Pierce said. “I grew up a Laker fan but playing on all the Boston Celtic teams . . . there’s no way I could go there — so this was the next best choice. And it’s always been a dream to play in front of my family and friends.”