Chris Paul Retires After 21 Seasons Following Trade Deadline Waiver
Los Angeles, Friday, 13 February 2026.
Departing as the NBA’s second all-time assist leader, the “Point God” chooses family over a new team, ending a legendary tenure after being waived by the Toronto Raptors.
End of an Era for the Point God
On Friday, February 13, 2026, Chris Paul officially announced his retirement from the National Basketball Association, bringing a definitive close to a storied 21-season career [1][2]. The announcement, made during the NBA’s All-Star weekend festivities in Inglewood, California, follows a complex series of transactional moves surrounding the league’s trade deadline [2]. Paul, widely revered as the “Point God” for his court vision and leadership, confirmed his departure shortly after being waived by the Toronto Raptors [1][4]. He had arrived in Toronto via a multi-team trade involving the Los Angeles Clippers earlier in the month, though the Raptors organization understood that Paul would not suit up for the franchise [1][2].
The Final Transaction
Paul’s exit from the league was precipitated by a challenging conclusion to his tenure with the Clippers. During the offseason, the 40-year-old veteran signed a one-year, $3.6 million contract to return to Los Angeles, a franchise where he had previously enjoyed significant success [1]. However, the reunion proved short-lived. Paul played his final NBA game on December 1, 2025, before the team sent him home later that month due to reported friction and leadership issues [1]. Statistically, his influence had waned significantly in this final chapter; he averaged career lows of 2.9 points and 3.3 assists in just 14.2 minutes per game prior to his departure from the active rotation [1][4]. Consequently, when the trade to Toronto was executed, it became clear that Paul would not seek to join another contender for a final playoff push, but rather accept the waiver and transition into retirement [2].
A Statistical Titan
While his final season ended unceremoniously, Paul’s broader resume secures his status as one of the most productive guards in basketball history. He retires ranked second all-time in NBA history for both assists, with 12,552, and steals, with 2,728 [2][4]. His consistency and longevity allowed him to become the first player ever to record at least 20,000 points alongside 10,000 assists, a benchmark of dual-threat efficiency that highlights his impact on the offensive end [2]. Over the course of his career, Paul was selected as an NBA All-Star 12 times and earned 11 All-NBA selections [1]. His international career was equally distinguished, contributing to two Olympic gold medals with Team USA, including the celebrated 2008 “Redeem Team” [1][2].
Choosing Family Over Ring Chasing
In his retirement statement, Paul emphasized that his decision was driven by a desire to prioritize his family after decades of professional obligations. He noted that he had spent the last six years away from his family, a sacrifice he was no longer willing to make [3]. “It’s time for me to show up for others and in other ways,” Paul stated, specifically citing his desire to be present for his children and wife [1][3]. This sentiment aligns with comments he made during the summer of 2025, where he expressed a distaste for missing events with his children [2]. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver acknowledged Paul’s immense contribution to the league, calling him “one of the greatest point guards in NBA history and a true steward of our sport” [1][4]. Paul leaves the game without an NBA championship—having reached the Finals once with the Phoenix Suns in 2021—but with a Hall of Fame legacy firmly intact [1][2].