The NBA play-in tournament is designed for drama, and Chris Paul just delivered a masterclass in post-game trolling. The future Hall of Famer took a not-so-subtle shot at his former team, the Los Angeles Clippers, following their crushing loss to the Golden State Warriors.
Paul, whose brief and tumultuous second stint with the Clippers ended abruptly last December, took to Instagram to revel in their elimination. The Clippers, who held a 13-point lead, completely unraveled in the fourth quarter. The Warriors closed the game on a decisive 16-6 run, holding Clippers star Kawhi Leonard scoreless until the final 16 seconds.
This loss clearly stung for Paul, whose exit from Los Angeles was anything but amicable. After reported clashes with head coach Ty Lue over his vocal leadership style, the Clippers essentially sent the 40-year-old veteran home before trading him. That messy departure ultimately led to Paul's retirement in February, closing the book on a 21-season career that included his prime years with the "Lob City" Clippers.
It's a stark reminder of how quickly relationships can sour in professional sports. While Paul built his legacy in part with the Clippers, averaging 18.8 points and 9.8 assists over seven seasons, the final chapter left a bitter taste. Now, with Golden State advancing to face Phoenix for the final playoff spot, Paul is watching from the sidelines—and clearly enjoying the view of his old team's misfortune.
