James Harden and Kawhi Leonard “shocked” by Clippers’ decision to release Chris Paul

The Los Angeles Clippers stunned the basketball world on Thursday (December 4, Philippine time) when they announced via social media that they had released veteran guard Chris Paul from their roster.

Clippers president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank later confirmed the move in a statement to ESPN.

“We are parting ways with Chris, and he will no longer be with the team. We will work with him on the next step of his career. Chris is a legendary Clipper who has had a historic career,” Frank said. “I want to make one thing very clear: no one is blaming Chris for our underperformance. I accept responsibility for the record we have right now. There are a lot of reasons why we’ve struggled. We are grateful for the impact Chris has made on the franchise.”

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Clippers stars James Harden and Kawhi Leonard admitted they were caught off guard upon learning that the 40-year-old playmaker would no longer be their teammate.

“I’m just as confused and shocked as you guys — the world,” Harden said following their 115–92 win over the Atlanta Hawks. “It definitely surprised me. But not just Chris, it’s a lot that we were dealing with. But that is out of my hands. I gotta focus on what I can control. I guess the front office felt that was the best decision for the organization.”

James Harden found out about the Chris Paul news just like everyone else 👀 pic.twitter.com/gTTrGAyTyU

— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) December 4, 2025

“It was shocking to me. I guess they had a conversation, and the front office made a decision,” Leonard added.

Reports indicate that Paul had not been on speaking terms with head coach Ty Lue for several weeks and that his direct leadership approach clashed with the team’s management. The veteran guard was said to be vocal in holding coaches, players, and executives accountable for the Clippers’ disappointing start — a stance that reportedly caused friction within the organization.

To officially sever ties, the Clippers must either waive Paul and pay out his $3.6 million salary, negotiate a buyout, or explore a trade — though trades involving recently signed players are not permitted until December 15.

Paul rejoined the Clippers in July for his 21st NBA season, signing a one-year, $3.6 million contract. He remains the franchise’s all-time leader in assists (4,023) and steals. This season, he appeared in 16 games, averaging 2.9 points and 3.3 assists in 14.3 minutes per game, primarily as a reserve.

Widely regarded as one of the greatest point guards ever, Paul ranks second in NBA history in both assists (12,552) and steals (2,728), trailing only John Stockton in each category. The fourth overall pick in the 2005 NBA Draft, he has played for the New Orleans Hornets, Houston Rockets, Oklahoma City Thunder, Phoenix Suns, Golden State Warriors, San Antonio Spurs, and twice for the Clippers. Despite his longevity and accolades, an NBA championship remains the lone missing achievement in his illustrious career.

Paul’s résumé includes the 2006 Rookie of the Year award, the 2013 All-Star Game MVP, 12 All-Star selections, four All-NBA First Team honors, seven NBA All-Defensive First Team nods, and multiple league titles in assists and steals.

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