Chris Paul Won't Retire After Clippers Split

Merlin sees the Clippers have parted ways with Chris Paul, but the veteran insists he won't retire midseason and still "plans to retire after the 2025-26 campaign." Paul, a 21-year NBA vet, struggled this year (2.9 PPG, 3.3 APG) as L.A. sits 6-16; he's been sent home and can't be traded until Dec. 15. Merlin notes the path forward is murky: teams' roster spots are scarce and one GM said, "I just don't have a roster spot for him." Paul signed to be near family, so a move away would be hard. Expect the Clippers and Paul to weigh waiving, a buyout, or waiting until trade eligibility opens before the next act.