Breaking: Clippers Release Chris Paul in Stunning Move—Key Details, Next Destinations & Immediate NBA Impact

Los Angeles—In a stunning pre-dawn decision, the Los Angeles Clippers have released 12-time All-Star Chris Paul, sending the 40-year-old veteran home from the team’s road trip and confirming he is “no longer on the roster.” Team president Lawrence Frank acknowledged the separation hours after Paul broke the news in a 3 a.m. Instagram Story, promising to “work with him on the next step of his career.” Why the Clippers made the move • The Clippers have dropped 14 of their last 16 games and sit at 5-16, a free-fall punctuated by season-ending injuries to key scorer Bradley Beal and inconsistent bench production. • Paul signed a one-year, $3.6 million deal in July with the understanding he would come off the bench; he averaged 2.9 points and 3.3 assists in 14.3 minutes over 16 appearances. • According to league rules, the club cannot trade his contract until Dec. 15, making an outright waiver or buyout the quickest cap-cleaning path. Impact on Los Angeles L.A. loses its franchise leader in assists and steals per game, but the move frees a roster spot and minutes for guard Bones Hyland while sharpening focus on a youth-driven rebuild. Financially, waiving Paul outright would cost the Clippers the full remaining salary, though a negotiated buyout is possible. What’s next for Chris Paul • Retirement looms: sources indicated last month that the future Hall of Famer plans to retire at season’s end, his 21st in the NBA. • Contender interest: Multiple playoff hopefuls need a veteran floor general; once Paul clears waivers he could sign for the minimum with a title-chasing club. • Trade watch: If L.A. hangs onto his contract until the December window, a swap involving expiring deals could emerge, but early signals point to an immediate split. Key numbers • 1,314 career starts, 11,857 assists (3rd all-time), 2,651 steals (1st all-time). • Clippers record with Paul this season: 2-14. • Age 40 season: 21st player in NBA history to hit the milestone. League and fan reaction Former teammates Blake Griffin and JJ Redick expressed shock on social media, while analysts framed the decision as a “mutual reset” for a struggling franchise that has fallen out of the early Western Conference playoff picture. Bottom line Chris Paul’s abrupt exit signals the Clippers’ commitment to a mid-season overhaul and opens the door for CP3’s potential last chase at an elusive championship ring—whether via immediate free agency or a strategic December trade.