Chris Paul blindsided by Clippers’ move to part ways

Sources confirmed to The Athletic’s Law Murray that the Clippers’ decision to part ways with Chris Paul was not Paul’s and was not initiated by him.

That was the clearest message to come out of the situation as the franchise moved to “part ways” with the future Hall of Famer.

In other words, the 40-year-old point guard didn’t ask out. He didn’t push for a change. He didn’t spark the breakup. The Clippers made the call, and Paul found out almost in real time.

His Instagram story said it all. “Just found out I’m being sent home,” he wrote, tossing in a peace-sign emoji for good measure.

Team president Lawrence Frank tried to soften the blow publicly, calling Paul a “legendary Clipper” and insisting the team’s miserable 5-16 start is not on him.

Frank even took responsibility for the rough opening stretch and praised Paul’s professionalism behind the scenes.

Still, Paul’s second stint in L.A. never materialized the way anyone expected. He averaged just 2.9 points and 3.3 assists in 16 appearances and briefly fell out of the rotation entirely.

The Clippers hoped his presence would stabilize their backcourt behind James Harden. Instead, the group fell apart early and now sits near the bottom of the West.

The Clippers are unlikely to cut Paul immediately because of tight apron restrictions. They can’t add a replacement until January 7. The more likely scenario is exploring his trade market once he becomes eligible on December 15.

The Knicks have already discussed the idea of adding Paul for depth, according to The New York Post.

However it ends, Paul’s reunion with the Clippers lasted only weeks and ended abruptly, without him ever asking for the exit.