Clippers' Tyronn Lue refutes report that he wasn't on speaking terms with Chris Paul for several weeks
The tumultuous end to Chris Paul’s reunion with the Los Angeles Clippers has sparked a media firestorm, centered on reports of a fractured relationship between the veteran point guard and head coach Tyronn Lue. Following the team’s abrupt decision to part ways with the 12-time All-Star earlier this week, reports surfaced alleging that the two had not been on speaking terms for several weeks leading up to the dismissal. On Tuesday, Lue firmly addressed these claims, categorizing the narrative of a "silent treatment" as completely false.
Speaking to reporters for the first time since Paul was sent home, Lue directly challenged the validity of the report, which had suggested Paul’s vocal leadership style led to a communication breakdown. Lue emphasized that communication remained open, even as the team struggled through a dismal 5-16 start to the 2025-26 season.
"That ain't true. We were talking," Lue told the media. "I mean, he played. How he gonna play if I'm not talking to him?"
While Lue denied the freeze-out, he acknowledged that the situation was difficult. He admitted there was a stretch where Paul was removed from the rotation, a decision that naturally caused frustration for a competitor of Paul's caliber. However, Lue insisted that professional dialogue continued throughout that period. When pressed on the specific reasons for the sudden roster move—which Paul claimed via social media he was unaware of until the last minute—Lue deflected to the front office, stating, "You gotta ask Lawrence [Frank]."
The failed "Lob City" reunion was intended to be a graceful farewell tour for Paul in his 21st NBA season. Instead, it ended with the Clippers citing a need to move in a different direction amid mounting losses. Lawrence Frank, the President of Basketball Operations, has publicly taken responsibility for the team's underperformance, absolving Paul of specific blame. As the Clippers attempt to salvage their season without the "Point God," Paul remains in limbo, waiting for the next transaction that will determine where—or if—his Hall of Fame career concludes.
Speaking to reporters for the first time since Paul was sent home, Lue directly challenged the validity of the report, which had suggested Paul’s vocal leadership style led to a communication breakdown. Lue emphasized that communication remained open, even as the team struggled through a dismal 5-16 start to the 2025-26 season.
"That ain't true. We were talking," Lue told the media. "I mean, he played. How he gonna play if I'm not talking to him?"
While Lue denied the freeze-out, he acknowledged that the situation was difficult. He admitted there was a stretch where Paul was removed from the rotation, a decision that naturally caused frustration for a competitor of Paul's caliber. However, Lue insisted that professional dialogue continued throughout that period. When pressed on the specific reasons for the sudden roster move—which Paul claimed via social media he was unaware of until the last minute—Lue deflected to the front office, stating, "You gotta ask Lawrence [Frank]."
The failed "Lob City" reunion was intended to be a graceful farewell tour for Paul in his 21st NBA season. Instead, it ended with the Clippers citing a need to move in a different direction amid mounting losses. Lawrence Frank, the President of Basketball Operations, has publicly taken responsibility for the team's underperformance, absolving Paul of specific blame. As the Clippers attempt to salvage their season without the "Point God," Paul remains in limbo, waiting for the next transaction that will determine where—or if—his Hall of Fame career concludes.
