Chris Paul leaves Golden State Warriors.
The Golden State Warriors have waived guard Chris Paul, who had a Sunday deadline to guarantee his $30 million salary for this season, the team announced.
Paul now becomes an unrestricted free agent.
He was initially traded from the Phoenix Suns to the Wizards over the summer in the Bradley Beal deal before he was flipped to Golden State in the deal that sent Jordan Poole to Washington - -- a move that now equates to a salary dump, as Paul's contract is coming off the books for nothing.
The Warriors initially pushed Paul's guarantee date so they could explore trade opportunities, but nothing materialized.
Paul, a 12-time NBA All-Star, came off the bench for the first time in his decorated career last season, accepting a reduced role with the Warriors. He averaged 9.2 points and 6.8 assists in 26.4 minutes.
The Warriors were hoping the acquisition of Paul would help them contend for another title, but they weren't close to being a championship contender this year.
Golden State finished the season 10th in the Western Conference with a 46-36 record before being eliminated from playoff contention by the Sacramento Kings in the Play-In Tournament.
Last season, Paul, a 12-time NBA All-Star, came off the bench for the first time in his distinguished career, taking on a limited role with the Warriors. He averaged 9.2 points and 6.8 assists per 26.4 minutes.
The Warriors hoped that acquiring Paul would help them compete for another title, but they were nowhere near a championship contender this season.
Golden State concluded the season with a 46-36 record, ranking 10th in the Western Conference, before being eliminated from postseason contention by the Sacramento Kings in the Play-In Tournament.