In a shocking twist to the 2025-26 NBA season, the generational talent Chris Paul was shockingly released by the Los Angeles Clippers in early December, during what was expected to be a farewell stint with the organization.

Paul, now 40-years old, signed a one-year contract with the Los Angeles Clippers this past summer, aiming to finish his 21-year NBA career where he originally helped establish their identity from 2011-2017. Paul revealed his plans for a final-season retirement towards the end of November, when he posted a social media message in tribute to his exceptional career.

But the Clippers, who were struggling with a record of just 5-16 and dealing with injury woes, shocked the world of basketball by announcing that they were putting an end to their relationship with Paul while on the road and sending him home from an away game. Apparently, this was an amiable splitting since no one was putting the blame solely on Paul for the Clippers’ performance.

The sudden move has caused reaction from the NBA community, with teammates and other superstars expressing shock at the way the legendary guard has been treated. Some observers felt that the timing of the guard’s departure is an insult to the player. Paul’s career, including 12 All-Star appearances, various All-NBA selections, as well as his overall leadership, is a lasting legacy in the NBA. Whether this is the end of his career or just a new beginning is a topic of debate among fans as well as analysts. While the way that his career ended was sad, his career was extremely illustrious and he will be remembered as an all-time great.