The alarming fallout between Chris Paul and the Los Angeles Clippers continues to unfold, and now one of Paul's former teammates is adding fuel to the fire.
Lou Williams, who spent several seasons with the Clippers, claims the franchise released the 12-time All-Star because he held everyone "accountable," including the front office. The Clippers waived Paul early Wednesday (Dec. 3), abruptly ending what was supposed to be his final NBA season.
Paul had previously announced he would retire as a Clipper, making the organization's decision all the more surprising. The Athletic reported that Paul played no role in the move, and his reaction on Instagram appeared to confirm the blindsiding.
"Just found out I'm being sent home," Paul wrote in an Instagram Story on Wednesday.
On FanDuel's Run It Back, Williams said Paul's honesty and leadership may have rubbed some in the organization the wrong way.
"CP3 was holding players and coaches accountable. From players to staff, from coaching staff up to the front office," Williams explained around the one-minute mark in the video below. "He was critical of the front office as well, and I think that was the straw that broke the camel's back."
Williams also revealed that Paul once apologized to the team for his bluntness but doubled down on the intention behind it. According to Williams, Paul told the group that his criticism stemmed from wanting to see them succeed, not from ego or resentment.
While the team has maintained Paul wasn’t at fault, a clearer picture is emerging, and it centers around Paul’s leadership style and direct approach.
According to a report shared by ESPN's Shams Charania, “Chris Paul and his leadership style clashed with the Clippers … Paul has been vocal in holding management, coaches and players accountable, which the team felt became disruptive. Specifically: Ty Lue was not on speaking terms with Paul for several weeks.”
Still, the Clippers' decision to cut ties, especially given that Paul was already committed to stepping away after the season, has left a stain on their relationship. Williams said he believes the move hurts both sides, saying Paul could have been the first player from the Lob City era to have his jersey retired.
The Clippers' on-court struggles have only magnified the controversy. At 5–16, with just two wins in their last 10 games and riding a five-game losing streak, the franchise appears far from stable. Team President Lawrence Frank pushed back on the notion that Paul was to blame for the poor stretch.
In a press release confirming Paul's release, Frank said, "No one is blaming Chris for our underperformance … I accept responsibility for the record we have right now … We're grateful for the impact Chris has made on the franchise."
Paul, who averaged 2.9 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 3.3 assists in 16 games this season, now faces an uncertain future. The Clippers say the team will help him determine "the next step."