Donovan Mitchell Calls Chris Paul's Clippers Exit 'BS'

The NBA star says the way Paul's career ended was 'messed up'.

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Donovan Mitchell didn't hold back when reflecting on how Chris Paul's NBA career came to an end. Mitchell, who has long credited Paul as a mentor, said the way Paul's career ended with the Los Angeles Clippers was 'BS' and 'messed up', as the 40-year-old point guard was unexpectedly told to step away from the team, marking the end of his second stint in Los Angeles.

Why it matters

Chris Paul is a future Hall of Famer and one of the greatest point guards the NBA has ever seen. He was also a central figure in player advocacy during his time leading the NBPA. The sudden and unceremonious end to his playing career has raised questions about how veteran players are treated by teams in their final seasons.

The details

What began as a feel-good return to the Clippers, the franchise where Paul enjoyed his greatest success, quickly unraveled. Shortly after being traded to and waived by the Toronto Raptors, Paul officially retired. Mitchell said he doesn't know all the details, but he believes Paul wasn't given the respect he deserved at the end of his career.

  • In the 2025-26 NBA season, Chris Paul's career came to an unexpected end.

The players

Donovan Mitchell

An NBA star who has long credited Chris Paul as a mentor and guiding figure early in his career.

Chris Paul

A future Hall of Famer, one of the greatest point guards the NBA has ever seen, and a central figure in player advocacy during his time leading the NBPA.

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What they’re saying

“To see [Chris Paul's] career end the way did, I think it's BS. I don't know. I don't see all the reports. I don't know the ins and outs of everything. That's not my job. But I know when you have a guy like that, there's a level that he has to be [respected], and he wasn't given that opportunity, which I think is messed up.”

— Donovan Mitchell (Andscape.com)

The takeaway

This case highlights the challenges veteran players face at the end of their careers, as teams may prioritize younger players and cost-cutting measures over honoring the contributions of all-time greats like Chris Paul. It raises questions about how the NBA can better respect its legends and ensure they receive the send-off they deserve.