Chris Paul’s time in San Antonio was short-lived-and, as it turns out, unlikely to ever be extended.
Despite playing all 82 games for the Spurs last season and putting up a respectable 8.8 points and 7.4 assists per game, the franchise ultimately decided to move in a different direction. According to multiple reports, there was no real interest from San Antonio in bringing the veteran point guard back for another run.
Instead, Paul opted for a reunion with the Clippers this past summer. But what looked like a nostalgic homecoming quickly turned sour. After just 16 games, where he averaged 2.9 points, 3.3 assists, and 1.8 rebounds, Paul was sent home while the team was on a road trip in Atlanta-and he hasn’t played since.
The Clippers now face a decision. If they want to officially part ways with the 39-year-old, they’ll need to either waive him and eat his $3.6 million salary, agree to a buyout, or try to find a trade partner willing to take on the contract. None of those options are particularly simple, especially given the current context surrounding Paul’s status.
Reports have surfaced indicating Paul’s presence had become a source of friction inside the Clippers' locker room. He was said to be openly critical of teammates, coaches, and even front office personnel-something that didn’t sit well within a squad already struggling to find its footing. Despite boasting names like Kawhi Leonard and James Harden, the Clippers have stumbled to a 6-20 record, and internal chemistry appears to be part of the problem.
Still, Leonard has reportedly kept in touch with Paul, which suggests the relationship between the two stars remains intact, even as the team’s season spirals.
Paul’s résumé speaks for itself. A 12-time All-Star, 11-time All-NBA selection, and nine-time All-Defensive honoree, he’s played for seven different teams over an iconic career that includes stops with the Hornets, Clippers, Rockets, Thunder, Suns, Warriors, and Spurs. His career averages-16.8 points, 9.2 assists, and 4.4 rebounds-reflect a player who’s been one of the most consistent and cerebral point guards of his generation.
But at 39, the question now isn’t just whether Paul will play again this season-it’s whether we’ve seen the last of him in an NBA uniform. While retirement hasn’t been officially announced, it’s widely expected once this season comes to a close.
Still, Paul sounds at peace with where he is. In a recent interview, he shared, *“I don’t regret anything.
I’m actually at peace with everything. More than anything, I’m excited about being around and getting a chance to play a small role in whatever anything looks like next.”
That “next” remains undefined for now. But if this is the end, Chris Paul walks away with a legacy few can match-one built on leadership, precision, and a relentless drive to compete at the highest level.