Chris Paul announces retirement from the NBA at age 40 after dismissal by the Raptors and controversial trade with Clippers
Point guard Chris Paul, 40 years old, announced this Friday, February 13, 2026, his definitive retirement from the NBA. The decision was announced through a publication on Instagram, hours after Toronto Raptors confirmed his dismissal.
Paul had been traded from the Los Angeles Clippers to the Raptors in early February in a multi-team trade before the league’s trade deadline. The move surprised the basketball world, especially since the veteran had returned to Clippers at the start of the season with the aim of ending his career at Los Angeles.
The 2025-26 season, which would be the last planned by Paul, ended abruptly. Ele only played games for Clippers, recording low averages in points and assists, and did not play for Raptors.
Return to Clippers and unexpected separation
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The initial plan was to end his career in the organization where he experienced his best moments between 2011 and 2017. However, the team’s performance at the beginning of the season led to internal changes that directly affected the veteran.
In December 2025, Clippers decided to part ways with Paul during a string of away games. Relatos indicated that the point guard’s leadership style generated friction in the locker room, which accelerated the decision of the board and the coaching staff.
The trade for the Raptors took place weeks later, but the Canadian team chose to release him immediately. Essa sequence of events marked a far from expected outcome for one of the greatest point guards in the league’s history.
Final season numbers and yield drop
This season, Chris Paul played in limited time for Clippers. Ele averaged 2.9 points and 3.3 assists in just 14 minutes per game, numbers that represent the lowest of his professional career.
The reduction in court time reflected both advanced age and the priority given to younger players in the squad. Sua last official match took place on December 1, 2025, before the separation with the Californian franchise.
- Average points: 2.9 per game
- Average assists: 3.3 per game
- Average minutes: 14 per game
- Games played: limited at the start of the season
Those numbers are in stark contrast to his career highs, when he led the league in assists for several seasons.
Main achievements over 21 seasons
Chris Paul played 21 seasons in the NBA, playing for seven different teams. Ele was selected 12 times for the All-Star Game and was part of the All-NBA team on 11 occasions.
The point guard ranks second in league history in total assists and also in steals. Draftado in 2005 as the fourth overall pick, he twice finished in the top three in regular-season MVP voting.
Paul led the league in assists five times and steals in six seasons. Ele was also named to the NBA’s all-defensive teams nine times.
His main achievements include:
- 12 selections for the All-Star Game
- 11 additions to All-NBA
- 5 assists leader titles
- 6 steals leader titles
- All-Star Game MVP in 2013
- Rookie of the Year in 2005-06
These achievements consolidate his position as a future member of Hall of Fama.
Remarkable passage through Phoenix Suns
The arrival at Finais in the NBA occurred in 2021, when Paul defended Phoenix Suns. The team was defeated by Milwaukee Bucks, but the campaign represented the highest point of its trajectory in terms of collective titles.
At Suns, he effectively partnered with young talent and helped transform the franchise into a contender. The season ended with Paul being fundamental in leading the attack.
Before that, he played for teams like New Orleans Hornets, where he started his career, and Oklahoma City Thunder, where he surprised by taking the team to the playoffs in the midst of reconstruction.
Legacy as leader and competitor
Chris Paul has always stood out for his competitive intensity and his ability to organize the offensive game. Conhecido as “Point God”, he influenced generations of point guards with his court vision and decision-making.
In his retirement announcement, he highlighted the responsibility of leading and accepting both positive moments and challenges. Paul emphasized that his intentions were always genuine, even though he acknowledged that not everyone approved of his style.
Competitiveness remained a trademark until the end. Ele mentioned his love for the game and the difficulty of leading at a high level over two decades.
Immediate repercussions on the league
The news of his retirement generated quick reactions among players, coaches and managers. Muitos highlighted the impact of Paul not only on the numbers, but on the culture of several franchises where he passed.
Teams he defended throughout his career prepared tributes for the next games. The NBA should officially recognize their contributions at future events.
The void left by a point guard of his stature will be felt especially in aspects such as locker room leadership and tactical intelligence.
Next steps off the court
Chris Paul indicated that he intends to dedicate more time to his family after leaving the court. Ele resides in Los Angeles and prioritized being close to her children during the last season.
Commercial and media activities should also occupy space on your agenda. Paul maintains long-term partnerships and involvement in community projects.
The transition to a new phase occurs at a time of reflection on two decades of dedication to professional basketball.
Context of the 2025-26 season for veterans
The current season has witnessed movements involving veteran players at the end of their careers. Equipes prioritized reconstructions and development of young people, which affected minutes of more experienced athletes.
Chris Paul wasn’t the only one facing role reduction. Outros established names underwent similar negotiations or layoffs throughout the year.
These changes reflect the league’s constant evolution toward younger, more athletic rosters.
Historical impact on the frame game
Chris Paul’s career redefines parameters for traditional point guards. Sua combination of ball distribution, defense and leadership sets a standard that is difficult to match.
He directly influenced the playing style of new generations. Muitos current shipowners cite Paul as a reference in interviews over the years.
The all-time ranking in assists and steals ensures that he remains among the best at the position.
Bruna Santos é colaboradora da redação do Mix Vale, portal de notícias com cobertura de Brasil e mundo. Produz conteúdo nas editorias de economia e benefícios, com foco em informação de serviço para o leitor brasileiro. Escreve e colabora para o portal desde 2024. Formação: Professora.
