“Wasn’t a Good Fit”: Ty Lue Delivers Cut-Throat Honest Verdict on Chris Paul’s Unceremonious Exit

NBA: Dallas Mavericks at Los Angeles Clippers - Source: Imagn
NBA: Dallas Mavericks at Los Angeles Clippers - Source: Imagn

The LA Clippers made a surprising call by moving on from Chris Paul, who was expected to finish the final season of his career with the team. The decision shocked the NBA community, but head coach Ty Lue stood by it.

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Before the Clippers faced the Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday, Lue addressed the situation and supported the front office. He kept it simple, saying the fit just was not there.

"I don't think it necessarily helped our team," Lue said. "I mean, I don't think the reason why we're 5-16 is because of CP's play. I just think that it wasn't a good fit for what he was looking for. Do I want to see CP go out like this? No, I have a lot of respect for him. He's been a friend of mine over the years, and you don't want to see a great go out like this. I'm pretty sure he will find something because he's a great player. [But] I didn't want to see it end like this."
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Although Lue referred to Paul as a “friend,” several reports paint a different picture. Paul’s leadership style reportedly clashed with both Lue and the Clippers, and he had not spoken to the head coach for several weeks.

Many fans felt the move was disrespectful, but it seems to have immediately paid off for the Clippers. Just a day after parting ways with Paul, the team snapped its five-game losing streak with a strong 115-92 win.

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Kawhi Leonard and James Harden react to unfortunate Chris Paul news

Teammates of Chris Paul were just as stunned as fans and analysts when the LA Clippers suddenly decided to move on from the Point God.

Kawhi Leonard and James Harden both admitted they were caught off guard when they heard the news, suggesting that any tension between Paul and the franchise was not something the players knew about.

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"I'm just as confused and shocked as you guys, the world," Harden said. "Definitely surprised me."
"It was shocking to me," Leonard said. "I guess they had a conversation, and front office made a decision."

Chris Paul appeared in 16 games before the Clippers let him go. He came off the bench in every outing and averaged 2.9 points, 1.8 rebounds and 3.3 assists per game.

Los Angeles Clippers Fan? Check out the latest Clippers depth chart, schedule, and roster updates all in one place.

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Edited by Advait Jajodia
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