The Toronto Raptors have formally released veteran guard Chris Paul, a 12-time All-Star, on Friday. This action was widely anticipated, as the Raptors' acquisition of Paul from the Los Angeles Clippers, via a three-team exchange that also involved the Brooklyn Nets during the recent trade deadline, was largely driven by fiscal considerations. Paul, who is 40 years old, has indicated his intention to conclude his illustrious career at the close of the current basketball season. His departure marks a significant moment for both the player and the league, as one of basketball's most accomplished point guards prepares to transition away from professional play.
Paul's recent tenure with the Clippers, a franchise where he previously spent six impactful seasons from 2011 to 2017, saw him sign a one-year agreement valued at $3.6 million last offseason. In the current season, his contributions were limited, averaging 2.9 points, 3.3 assists, and 1.8 rebounds across 16 games as a reserve player. He has not participated in a game since early December, suggesting a winding down of his active playing time. This recent period reflects a shift in his role and impact on the court compared to his prime.
Throughout his extensive career, Paul has carved out an exceptional legacy in the NBA. He stands as the second-highest in both assists, with a remarkable 12,552, and steals, accumulating 2,728, with Basketball Hall of Famer John Stockton being the sole player ahead of him in both categories. His individual accolades are extensive, including being named Rookie of the Year in 2006 during his time with the New Orleans Hornets. He has been selected to the All-NBA first-team on four occasions, led the league in assists five times, and was the steals champion six times. Furthermore, his defensive prowess earned him a spot on seven All-Defensive first-teams, and he was recognized as the MVP of the 2013 All-Star Game.
Beyond his NBA achievements, Paul has proudly represented the United States on the international stage, securing Olympic gold medals in Beijing in 2008 and London in 2012. In recognition of his enduring impact and contributions to the sport, he was also named to the NBA's prestigious 75th-anniversary team in 2021. His journey through the league saw him play for several franchises, starting with New Orleans, followed by trades to the Clippers in 2011, and subsequent stints with the Houston Rockets (2017-19), Oklahoma City Thunder (2019-20), Phoenix Suns (2020-23), Golden State Warriors (2023-24), and San Antonio Spurs (2024-25).
Over 1,370 games, including 1,314 starts, Paul maintained career averages of 16.8 points, 9.2 assists, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.0 steals. Despite his numerous individual and team successes, an NBA championship has eluded him, with his closest approach being a single NBA Finals appearance where his Suns team was defeated by the Milwaukee Bucks in 2021.
Paul's release by the Raptors marks the penultimate chapter in a storied career, highlighting a strategic move by the team for financial restructuring, while Paul himself prepares to conclude his professional playing days. His extensive records in assists and steals, coupled with a multitude of individual honors and Olympic gold medals, firmly cement his status as one of basketball's all-time greats, even as the ultimate championship remained just out of reach.