Guard Chris Paul of the LA Clippers is set to retire at the end of the current NBA season. This marks his 21st season in the league. At 40 years old, Paul holds a remarkable legacy as a 12-time All-Star and an 11-time All-NBA team member.
Chris Paul’s Accomplishments and Legacy
Paul’s accolades include:
- 2006 NBA Rookie of the Year
- Member of the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team
- Nine-time All-Defensive Team member
He is also renowned as “The Point God.” Paul is the NBA’s active leader in both assists and steals. He ranks second all-time in assists and steals behind John Stockton. Throughout his career, he has led the league in assists per game five times and steals per game six times.
Career Highlights
Over his career, he has averaged:
- 17.9 points per game
- 9.2 assists per game
Paul was drafted fourth overall by the New Orleans Hornets in 2005. He spent six seasons with the Hornets before a controversial trade situation led him to the LA Clippers. There, he formed a formidable partnership with Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan, initiating the “Lob City” era that brought the franchise its most successful period.
Following his tenure with the Clippers, Paul was traded to the Houston Rockets. He teamed up with James Harden, leading the team to significant regular-season success but struggling in the playoffs against the Golden State Warriors.
Subsequent Stops in the NBA
After two years with the Rockets, he moved to the Oklahoma City Thunder, where he mentored rising star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. His single season in OKC saw the team reach the postseason.
Paul then joined the Phoenix Suns, where he made his only NBA Finals appearance in 2021 against the Milwaukee Bucks. This season, he plays for the Golden State Warriors before moving to the San Antonio Spurs to add veteran experience to a rebuilding roster.
Retirement Announcement
As he returns to North Carolina to face the Charlotte Hornets, Paul expressed gratitude for his final season on social media. With his retirement approaching, he aims to leave a lasting legacy in professional basketball.
Chris Paul will officially retire at the end of this season, cementing his status as a future Hall of Famer.
