NBA legend Chris Paul has been finding peace since being released by the Clippers.
The Los Angeles Clippers' late-night dismissal of veteran Chris Paul has been one of the ugliest chapters in the Clippers' disastrous season.
Paul, in his 21st season, was looking to end his career with the team that he spent the most meaningful time with in the NBA.
Los Angeles Clippers guard Chris Paul (3) looks to pass during the second half against the Charlotte Hornets at the Spectrum Center. Sam Sharpe-Imagn ImagesThat retirement tour certainly didn't pan out the way that he hoped with the Clippers, now 6-19 this season, suffering brutal loss after loss and reports of friction between Paul, head coach Ty Lue and the rest of the Los Angeles locker room emerged, with the idea that Paul was overstepping his role and trying to police the team while spreading negative talk.
A Tumultuous Exit
Lue reportedly refused a meeting with Paul after the latter requested one to discuss his presence on the team, and the overall tension finally culminated in the point guard being released from the team in the middle of the night after the team had travelled to play the Atlanta Hawks.
The events that transpired certainly left a negative impression on Paul, who first played six seasons with the "Lob City" Clippers from 2011-17 in an era that brought new hope to the franchise. However, in the weeks that have passed, Paul has taken the opportunity to spend his regrettably acquired free time with his family.
LA Clippers guard Chris Paul (3) passes the ball during the second half against the Orlando Magic at Kia Center. Mike Watters-Imagn Images“Stuff’s been a little crazy in the past few days — to say the least,” Paul said to PEOPLE. “But honestly, I’m home. My daughter had tryouts yesterday. My nephew had a basketball game. My son has a game coming up on the 12th.”
Finding Peace
Despite the dark ending, Paul has managed to see the bright side of his dismissal and is attempting to practice gratitude for everything he's been able to do since being released from the team. That included making the most of his time in Atlanta since he no longer had a basketball game there to play in.
Los Angeles Clippers guard Chris Paul (3) against the Phoenix Suns in the first half at the Mortgage Matchup Center. Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images“I don’t regret anything,” Paul said. “I was in Atlanta with a whole bunch of family. It was my last time gonna be playing there. That’s life. The whole thing took on a life of its own, you know? But I’m excited to be back here with my family.”
It wasn't the end to his Clippers' tenure that Paul or anyone else could have imagined, but now Paul is looking forward to the next phase of his career and life, whatever that may be.
“I’m actually at peace with everything,” Paul said. “More than anything, I’m excited about being around and getting a chance to play a small role in whatever anything looks like next.”