"Coach Vinny Del Negro could tell there was something wrong with Chris Paul during the Clippers' loss Monday to the Golden State Warriors in Oakland. So could everyone else inside the Oracle Arena.

So could anyone watching on TV at home or listening on the radio.

Paul scored four points - well below his average of 16.6 - and added nine assists in his second game back in the starting lineup after sitting out three because of a bruised right kneecap. He limped noticeably and wasn't effective against the Warriors.

So, with an eye on the big picture, the Clippers decided it was best for Paul to sit out their showdown with NBA-leading Oklahoma City on Tuesday at Staples Center. It's unclear when Paul might play again. Del Negro would only say Paul couldn't play against the Thunder.

Paul declined a pregame interview request.