Chris Paul revealed that the Los Angeles Clippers president praised his leadership just days before sending him home.
The 12-time All-Star discussed the mixed messages he received prior to his abrupt exit during Carmelo Anthony’s ‘7 PM in Brooklyn’ podcast.
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The appearance came shortly after Paul officially announced his retirement. His comments offered insight into the weeks leading up to his departure from the franchise.
Photo by David Jensen/Getty Images
Paul details praise from Lawrence Frank
Speaking on Carmelo Anthony’s ‘7 PM in Brooklyn‘ podcast, Chris Paul said Clippers president Lawrence Frank reached out earlier in the season to highlight an article praising his leadership.
The message arrived while Paul believed he was fulfilling the veteran role expected of him. Paul described the gesture as a validation of his presence within the team.
“Earlier in the season, Lawrence Frank sent me an article about how great my leadership was — an article I had never seen. He texted it to me, saying, ‘Man, this is great leadership right here.’”
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Despite that endorsement, Paul was later informed that his services were no longer required. The contrast between public praise and his eventual dismissal became a central point of reflection.
Jersey retirement promise came before exit
Paul also said Frank told him the organization planned to retire his jersey in the future. The timing of that statement stood out, given what followed.
“He said that to me before he sent me home.”
Paul added that he had been promised a meeting with head coach Ty Lue prior to his departure, but that meeting never took place. When he followed up, he said he was told it could not happen.
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Earlier reports had suggested tension between Paul and Lue, along with differing expectations surrounding his mentorship role. Paul’s account indicates the disconnect extended beyond the locker room and into the front office.
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