The Golden State Warriors have officially waived guard Chris Paul, following the expiration of his Sunday deadline to secure his $30 million salary for this season, the team announced.
Paul now enters unrestricted free agency.
A 12-time NBA All-Star, Paul took on a bench role for the first time in his illustrious career last season with the Warriors, averaging 9.2 points and 6.8 assists in 26.4 minutes per game.
Acquired in exchange for Jordan Poole last summer, Paul's departure represents a salary adjustment for the Warriors, as his contract now comes off their books without compensation.
Initially, the Warriors
extended Paul's guarantee date to explore potential trade options, but ultimately no deals materialized.
The Golden State Warriors are set to part ways with Klay Thompson, who is an unrestricted free agent after spending 13 seasons with the team. This move reduces the Warriors' committed salary to $147.2 million for next season, positioning them as a non-taxpaying midlevel team entering free agency.
With the $12.8 million midlevel exception and biannual exception at their disposal, the Warriors can pursue free agent signings.
Meanwhile, Thompson intends to engage in discussions with the Dallas Mavericks, Los Angeles Lakers, Los Angeles Clippers, and Philadelphia 76ers early in free agency, sources informed ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski.
Thompson's tenure with the Warriors is winding down amid strained relationships and no renewed contract negotiations since last summer.
Sources indicate that while the midlevel exception offered by the Lakers may not be sufficient to lure him to Los Angeles, Thompson remains open to exploring appealing offers and opportunities.