The Los Angeles Clippers have officially released veteran point guard Chris Paul, marking a surprising turn in what was expected to be the final chapter of his storied NBA career. The news broke this morning during the team’s five-game road trip, just a day after a tough 140-123 loss to the Miami Heat. The Clippers now sit at 5-16 on the season, and this move adds another layer to what’s already been a rocky campaign.
Paul, 40, signed with the Clippers this past offseason on a veteran minimum deal, returning to a franchise where he made some of his most memorable runs. The expectation was clear: this was a farewell tour, a chance for one of the greatest point guards of his generation to close things out where he helped build "Lob City" into a Western Conference contender.
Just two weeks ago, Paul confirmed via social media that this season would be his last. But now, with the Clippers deciding to part ways midseason, that farewell tour has taken an unexpected detour.
On the court, Paul’s role had already shifted dramatically. In 16 appearances this season, he averaged 2.9 points and 3.3 assists over 14.3 minutes per game.
His shooting numbers-32.1% from the field and 33.3% from deep-reflected the wear and tear of 21 NBA seasons. He wasn’t brought in to carry the offense, but rather to provide leadership, poise, and mentorship for a Clippers team trying to stay afloat in a loaded Western Conference.
Still, the timing of the release raises eyebrows. It’s rare to see a future Hall-of-Famer cut loose midseason, especially one who had already announced his retirement plans. Whether this was purely a basketball decision, a roster-clearing move, or something else entirely remains to be seen.
Paul’s legacy in Los Angeles is secure. From 2011 to 2017, he helped transform the Clippers from an afterthought into a perennial playoff team.
Alongside Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan, he brought a level of competitiveness and national relevance the franchise hadn’t seen before. His return this season was supposed to be a full-circle moment-a chance to go out on his terms, in front of fans who once chanted his name in playoff battles.
Instead, his final moments in a Clippers uniform may have come quietly, in a loss on the road, without the send-off many expected.
And while his journey with the Clippers ends here, Paul’s career arc continues to fascinate. From being passed over by Portland in the 2005 NBA Draft to becoming one of the most cerebral and accomplished point guards the game has ever seen, his impact on the league is undeniable.
Where things go from here-whether he signs a ceremonial deal to retire with another team, or simply steps away from the game-remains to be seen. But one thing’s for sure: Chris Paul’s place in NBA history is already cemented.