Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick offered a mix of humor, honesty, and admiration when speaking about Chris Paul’s retirement announcement. Paul confirmed this week that the 2025–26 campaign — his 21st NBA season — will be his final one, closing the book on a storied career that includes two Olympic gold medals and a long list of accolades.
Redick, who played alongside Paul with the Los Angeles Clippers from 2013–17, reflected on their shared history after Lakers practice. The two never captured an NBA championship together — or individually — though Paul will have one final chance as he reunites with the Clippers this season.
“I hope he doesn’t win an NBA championship because that would mean the Clippers win an NBA championship and we don’t,” Redick joked to Olympics.com.