"Let it go unc": NBA fans plead Chris Paul to retire after veteran star's decision to continue playing

Following Tuesday night's 118-94 loss to the Sacramento Kings, Golden State Warriors point guard Chris Paul remains headstrong about a possible comeback next season. In his 18 minutes of action, he only put up three points (1 of 3 shooting, including 1 of 2 from 3-point range) during the contest. After the loss, he cleared the air about last night's disappointing loss, possibly being the last time he's seen on the court.

Paul spoke to The Athletic reporter Anthony Slater and said he was sure he would be back next season.

Originally, Paul was acquired by the Warriors on July 6, 2023, from the Washington Wizards in exchange for Jordan Poole. The team also included Patrick Baldwin Jr., Ryan Rollins, a 2027 second-round draft pick and a 2030 first-round draft pick (top 20 protected).

This season, he has played in 58 games with the Golden State Warriors. In his 19th NBA season, he averaged 9.2 points (44.1% shooting, including 37.1% from 3-point range), 6.8 assists and 3.9 rebounds per game.

Despite posting decent individual numbers and his plan to return next season, several NBA fans voiced their disagreement on X.

"Let it go unc," a fan wrote.

Meanwhile, X user Edgar Woo (@edgarwoo_) argued that Chris Paul should be coming off the bench without any hesitation.

"You definitely coming off the bench next year my boy. No questions asked," the fan posted.

Additionally, X user Dark Web Informer (@DarkWebInformer) suggested that the Warriors guard should consider calling it a career.

"Bro needs to retire though," the fan posted.

User joegrower420.eth (@joegrower420) painted a picture of Chris Paul lasting in the league until he's 50 years old.

"Bro's gonna be 50 and in the league soon," the fan posted.

X user Gringo (@Mkisii_mmeru), on the other hand, wants to see at least more seasons with Paul to see how much in the tank he has left.

"Two more frustrating seasons and he's gone," the fan posted.

Another fan argued that Chris Paul's roster spot with the Golden State Warriors is being wasted, considering he's long past his prime.

"He's wasting a spot in the NBA ... Taking away a spot from a good young player somewhere," the fan posted.

The Warriors' front office has a lot to consider when factoring in the team's outlook for the next season. Whether it comes to trading away several pieces or retaining the same cast of players, the organization still has a lot on its plate heading into the offseason.

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Chris Paul talked about entering the offseason earlier than planned

It wasn't the ideal finish for Chris Paul under a new scenario in his NBA career. Considering the disappointing showing he put forth in last night's loss, especially when the team needed more from his production, the 12-time NBA All-Star admitted the different feeling of starting the offseason earlier than expected.

"It's an eerie feeling right now," Paul said. "I tore my meniscus in New Orleans back in the 2009-10 season. That was the last time I missed the playoffs. This is weird right now. I get to be a dad earlier than usual. It's tough. It's life in this league. You get back to work and figure out what it looks like next [season]. ..."

Be that as it may, Paul understands that this is how the league has always been and isn't new to the harshness of the landscape that comes along with it. The goal remains the same, however, and as Chris Paul knows, the grind doesn't change for him despite going through many trials and tribulations throughout his career.

It remains to be seen if Paul will still wear the same jersey next season or if he will be representing a different ball club.