Kawhi Leonard gets brutally honest about Chris Paul’s departure

Kawhi Leonard became sincere about The controversial departure of Chris Paul from the Los Angeles Clippers during the 2025-26 NBA season.

Paul reunited with the Clippers last offseason as this season turned out to be the last of his career. However, after appearing in 16 games, the Los Angeles organization sent the veteran quarterback home earlier this month, a decision that stunned the rest of the league.

Leonard reflected on the events decisions after the team’s practice on Sunday, according to reporter Joey Lin. He said he was shocked by the news, supporting the idea that Paul had been positive and a team player during his short stay.

“Surprised by that. He was always a willing teammate when I talked to him. All I could talk about was our conversations. And they were always positive and team-forward. I had nothing to do with it. I didn’t even know what was going on,” Leonard said.

Kawhi Leonard in the Clippers is parting ways with Chris Paul:

“I’m surprised. He was always a willing teammate when I talked to him. The only thing I could talk about was our conversations. And they were always positive and team-oriented. I had nothing to do with it. I… pic.twitter.com/cjiVv0a5dE

— Joey Linn (@joeilinn_) December 14, 2025

What awaits Kawhi Leonard, Clippers

It’s clear that Kawhi Leonard bears no ill will toward Chris Paul. Although their time together did not go as they had hoped, Leonard revealed that he had no role in Paul’s departure from the Clippers.

In the meantime, Leonard will be hoping to stay on the court as long as possible while staying healthy. Los Angeles has struggled to mount a big winning streak to get back into the playoff picture, suffering losses that have held them back significantly.

In the 15 games Leonard has played this season, the Clippers are 4-11 with him and 2-8 without him. He is averaging 25.3 points, 5.7 rebounds and 3.1 assists per game. He is shooting 48.6% from the field, including 38% from beyond the arc and 97.3% from the free throw line.

Los Angeles is 6-19 on the season, holding onto 14th place in the Western Conference standings. They are tied with the Sacramento Kings while trailing the Portland Trail Blazers by three games and the Utah Jazz and Dallas Mavericks by 3.5 games.

The Clippers will continue their preparations for the upcoming match, because they are at home. They host the Memphis Grizzlies on December 15th at 10:30pm ET.