Chris Paul Addresses Clippers Departure After Abrupt Split

The 'Point God' opens up about his exit from the Los Angeles Clippers amid reports of a strained relationship with teammates and coaching staff.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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NBA veteran Chris Paul has finally addressed the rumors surrounding his abrupt departure from the Los Angeles Clippers last season. Paul, who recently announced his retirement, claims he had positive conversations with Clippers leadership about finishing his career with the team, contradicting reports of a strained relationship and disruptive leadership style.

Why it matters

Paul's exit from the Clippers was one of the most surprising and controversial stories of the NBA season, with many players and fans questioning how such a respected veteran could have been let go in that manner. Paul's comments provide insight into the behind-the-scenes dynamics and offer a different perspective on the reasons for his departure.

The details

According to reports, the Clippers released Paul due to his strained relationship with teammates and head coach Tyronn Lue, particularly his approach to holding teammates accountable. However, Paul claims he had positive conversations with Clippers president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank and even reached out to star player Kawhi Leonard about finishing his career with the team. Paul says he was told his leadership was great earlier in the season, contradicting the narrative that he was a negative presence in the locker room.

  • In February 2026, Chris Paul was abruptly let go by the Los Angeles Clippers.
  • Five days ago, Paul announced his retirement from the NBA.

The players

Chris Paul

A veteran NBA point guard who was recently released by the Los Angeles Clippers and has now announced his retirement from the league.

Tyronn Lue

The head coach of the Los Angeles Clippers at the time of Paul's departure.

Lawrence Frank

The president of basketball operations for the Los Angeles Clippers.

Kawhi Leonard

A star player for the Los Angeles Clippers who Paul claims he had positive conversations with about finishing his career with the team.

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What they’re saying

“If I was that bad, why am I talking with Kawhi? I hit T-Lue like, I would love to finish my career here. [Lawrence] Frank, I hit him, and he said the same thing.”

— Chris Paul (Carmelo Anthony's 7PM in Brooklyn podcast)

“Earlier in the season, Lawrence Frank sent me an article on how great my leadership was. An article I had never seen, he texted it to me saying, 'Man, this is great leadership right here.' I was extremely grateful, and you saw I was emotional when I went back. I knew it was gonna be my last year, and I was getting to play in front of my family.”

— Chris Paul (Carmelo Anthony's 7PM in Brooklyn podcast)

What’s next

The details of Paul's departure from the Clippers and the team's decision-making process remain unclear, and it's uncertain if any further information will be released publicly.

The takeaway

Chris Paul's comments provide a different perspective on his exit from the Clippers, suggesting that the narrative of a strained relationship and disruptive leadership style may not tell the full story. This highlights the complexities and nuances often involved in high-profile sports departures, and the importance of hearing all sides before drawing conclusions.