Chris Paul Sent Home by Los Angeles Clippers

Chris Paul’s reunion with the Clippers ended abruptly in December when the team sent him home and said he was no longer with the club. The split followed friction over a framed "reserve" role that teammates feared would disrupt minutes. Paul reportedly agreed to the outline but wanted to compete and to be "an extension of the coaching staff," and some players and coaches felt he crossed lines. Merlin sees a familiar script. Paul is a brilliant floor general who "wears you out," insisting on his view until others bend, and that intensity helps teams while straining locker rooms. The Clippers, at six wins and 20 losses, now face a roster decision: trade, waive or buy him out, and the handling of his exit has left a sour aftertaste.