Chris Paul Sent Home by Clippers Amid Final-Season Fade

Merlin sees Chris Paul’s handshake with the Clippers end midseason: Paul announced on social media the team was “sending him home” and the Clippers confirmed he “will no longer be on the team.” Coming 21 games into what Paul indicated is “this will be his final season,” the move matters because a future Hall of Famer who averaged just 2.9 points and 3.3 assists in limited minutes now becomes available via trade (after Dec. 15), buyout or waiver — decisions that could reshape contenders and the Clippers’ roster and finances. Merlin senses fit and storylines: Minnesota needs a true floor general and Houston offers a sentimental, low-demand role. Waiving is likely a last resort; a buyout or soft landing with a contender chasing a title feels more probable if Paul wants one last run.