Following a stunning cut by the Los Angeles Clippers, certain reports emerged regarding Chris Paul, suggesting that some of his teammates wanted him out of the organization.
The NBA veteran said that he was at peace despite being cut by the franchise, that he was happy to end his career, and that he had contributed significantly during his prime years.
Meanwhile, some Clippers have been asked about the cut that pertains to Paul, inquiring about its veracity or the rumors behind it, per Joey Linn on X.
Clippers forward Nicolas Batum claimed that he had lots of respect for Paul, also knowing they were both veterans in the league.
“I texted him the first day that happened… I obviously have a ton of respect for him – 21 years and a Hall of Famer. I got a chance to play with a lot of great players. He’s one of them. So just wanted to text him and thank him for the time I had with him,” Batum said.
“They didn’t ask me. Like everybody else, I just woke up and found out about the news. It is what it is, the situation upstairs… If something happened, I don’t really know about it… It’s sad sometimes to be part of that. On both sides. The fans too. Just wish the best for CP,” he added.
Clippers swingman John Collins also discussed his take on the floor general, saying he already had a relationship with him even before he was drafted.
“It didn’t workout for whatever reason. But somebody who I looked up to. Wake Forest guy, Clipper legend. Somebody I had a relationship with before I was even drafted. So all love and respect out to my guy CP… Definitely was a lot quieter without him here today. So I’ll leave it at that. Wishing him well in whatever he chooses to do in his next steps,” Collins said.
Collins commended Paul’s leadership, as it was felt on the team that his years of experience and greatness set a standard for his peers to reach.
“Intense. He’s a leader. Somebody that wants the best for everybody. It was extremely hard. Whether it was me not being in perfect sync with him, or him seeing that I gave 95% effort instead of 100%. He wants greatness and that’s what he demands. That was the biggest thing. Him being a leader and me trying to play to that standard that he expects me to.”
