Out of nowhere, Chris Paul is no longer a member of the Los Angeles Clippers.
An odd saga unfolded while most of the basketball world slept, with NBA fans waking up Wednesday morning and trying to understand what happened.
Paul posted on his Instagram story in the early morning hours, sharing that was being sent home from Atlanta, where the Clippers are slated to play Wednesday night.
ESPN's Ohm Youngmisuk shared this statement from L.A. President of basketball operations Lawrence Frank:
"We are parting ways with Chris and he will no longer be with the team. We will work with him on the next step of his career. Chris is a legendary Clipper who has had a historic career. I want to make one thing very clear. No one is blaming Chris for our underperformance. I accept responsibility for the record we have right now. There are a lot of reasons why we've struggled. We're grateful for the impact Chris has made on the franchise."
Youngmisuk reports that the Clippers could either waive Paul and pay his $3.6 million salary, agree to buyout terms with him, or try to trade him (which can't happen until Dec. 15).
Paul plans to retire at the end of this season. It's not immediately clear how a move like this could change his plans.
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Why are the Clippers getting rid of Chris Paul?
It hasn't been made crystal clear why Paul is being let go, but the Clippers' struggles must be a part of it.
They're just 5-16, including with losses in 14 of their last 16 games.
The 40-year old Paul has played just 14.3 minutes per game this season, averaging 2.9 points and 3.3 assists per contest.
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On Monday, Paul had eight points and three assists in a 17-point loss to the Miami Heat.
This was Paul's second stint with the Clippers after famously being their point guard during the Lob City era. He's the Clippers' all-time leader in assists and in steals per game.
More news will likely come out in the days ahead, and Paul may sign with a new team, but for now, it's a stunner.
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