In a shocking turn of events at midnight on December 3rd, the Los Angeles Clippers cut one of the greatest players in their franchise’s history from their roster just days after he announced his decision to retire from the NBA at the end of the season. Chris Paul, who is a 12-time All-Star and future Hall of Famer, is widely considered one of the greatest point guards in NBA history. He has stated that he is “at peace with everything” after the stunning move. 

Shocked NBA pundits were quick to criticize the move, as they classified the move as being disrespectful to one of the greatest players of all time. Paul had previously spent 6 seasons with the team while leading them in one of the most successful periods in the franchise’s history. When he joined the Clippers in 2011, he elevated them from being the complete laughingstock of the NBA to being a perennial championship contender. The team was well known for their fast paced and exciting style of play. It was this entertaining style that saw them receive the nickname of “Lob City” during this period. 

While Paul was averaging just 2.9 ppg during his age-40 season, many believed he still could have added value to the team by bringing playoff experience and veteran leadership. This was apparently not the case, as it is widely reported that there was immense conflict within the locker room between head coach Tyronn Lue and Paul. Paul allegedly attempted to coach other players and undermine his authority, leading to a rift that caused the pair to not speak for several weeks. The Clippers have also massively underperformed expectations, starting the season 5-16, which may have motivated ownership to make a drastic change such as this. Paul was also criticized by some for attempting to lead in the same way he has always done, despite the Clippers being a team full of veteran players who dislike a sometimes bossy and brash leader like Paul. This method has worked in the past, but many felt the Clippers were the wrong team to preach to in such a manner.  

At 40 years old, Paul now has a decision on whether to attempt to be traded by the Clippers to another team or whether he will retire after being cut from the roster. He has spoken since the release and has stated that he is grateful for more time to spend with his family; however, given his famous competitive spirit, it would not be surprising if he chose to pursue one final season elsewhere. 

If this is the final time Chris Paul will take the floor in the NBA, he has certainly left a historic mark on the league. Paul has been a contributor to many teams, most significantly the Clippers, Rockets, and Pelicans, and has brought tenacity, leadership, and high-IQ to all. He has elevated his teammates and led through adversity on every team he has been on. One significant stain on his career is his lack of an NBA championship, as he is often cited as one of the greatest players to never win one. In fact, one of the primary reasons for his signing with the Clippers was in order to chase an NBA title. In addition to his exploits on the court, Paul served as one of the most influential presidents of the NBA Players Association ever, pushing for more player empowerment and shaping league politics for decades to come. His release by the Clippers may be jarring, but it will not tarnish his legacy or prevent him from gaining a coveted place in the Hall of Fame.