When Chris Paul signed with the Los Angeles Clippers at the beginning of the 2025–2026 season, it felt like a homecoming for the 12-time All-Star. Paul led the Clippers to six consecutive playoff appearances during the 2010s, making him a notable figure in the franchise's history.
In November, Paul announced on social media that he intended to retire from the NBA in 2026. Teaming up with the likes of Kawhi Leonard, James Harden, and Ivica Zubac, there were hopes that the 40-year-old point guard could make his mark on Los Angeles one final time.
However, the relationship between Paul and the Clippers' front office quickly soured. In December, the Clippers expressed that they intended to part ways with him. Reports suggested that Paul and Clippers head coach Tyronn Lue clashed over leadership styles.
Paul was ultimately moved to the Toronto Raptors in February, where he was immediately waived. Paul declared his retirement from the league shortly afterward.
In an interview with 7PM in Brooklyn, Paul spoke about his abrupt end with the Clippers.
"I'm still grasping it, trying to figure out how it got to that… During training camp, I talked to one of my teammates for a while, and then as soon as I went to the meal room, somebody came and told me that they didn’t want me giving players advice."
Throughout his 21-season career, Paul played for the Clippers, New Orleans Hornets, Houston Rockets, Oklahoma City Thunder, Phoenix Suns, Golden State Warriors, and San Antonio Spurs. While his retirement tour ended on a bitter note, he had a remarkable run in the NBA.
Some of Paul's achievements include an NBA Rookie of the Year Award, an NBA All-Star Game Most Valuable Player Award, two Olympic gold medals, five NBA assists leader titles, and six NBA steals leader titles.
Aside from Vince Carter, Paul had the longest NBA career without winning a championship. His closest chance came in 2021, as a member of the Suns. Phoenix lost the NBA Finals series against the Milwaukee Bucks in six games.
Overall, Paul should be a strong candidate once he is eligible for induction into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame.
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