Chris Paul, a future Hall of Famer, signed a one-year, $10.5 million contract with the San Antonio Spurs last summer after being waived by the Golden State Warriors. His potential move from San Antonio Spurs is now in question as the Dallas Mavericks appear to be frontrunners interested in acquiring the 40-year-old veteran.
This past season, Paul played all 82 games for San Antonio, averaging 8.8 points, 3.6 rebounds, 7.4 assists, 1.3 steals, and 0.3 blocks per game while shooting 42.7% from the field, 37.7% from three-point range, and 92.4% from the free throw line. Despite his consistent presence, the Spurs ended the season with a 34-48 record and missed the playoffs for the sixth consecutive year.
The Spurs’ season experienced notable challenges including head coach Gregg Popovich suffering a stroke, which forced him to step away from coaching temporarily. Additionally, the team saw significant roster changes with the trade acquisition of De’Aaron Fox from the Sacramento Kings and Victor Wembanyama undergoing surgery for deep vein thrombosis in his right shoulder.
San Antonio Spurs Preparing for Youth Movement While Paul’s Role Diminishes
San Antonio holds the second overall pick in the upcoming NBA draft and is reportedly interested in Rutgers point guard Dylan Harper. With Fox firmly established and Stephon Castle having an impressive rookie season, Paul’s return to the Spurs seems unlikely. Marc Stein of The Stein Line noted,
“Anticipation is building that Paul could be on the move again this offseason even though his time as a Spur as a mentor to Wembanyama and a young team overall was an unabashed success.”
He added,
“The reality now, though, is that San Antonio acquired Fox in February and just watched Castle assemble a Rookie of the Year season.”
Dallas Mavericks Target Chris Paul to Address Point Guard Vacancy
Reports have highlighted the Dallas Mavericks’ interest in signing Paul, who would fill the starting point guard role while Kyrie Irving recovers from a left ACL tear sustained last season. The Mavericks’ search for a reliable playmaker has made Paul an attractive candidate due to his extensive experience and proven leadership.
Throughout his career, Paul has averaged 17.0 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 9.2 assists per game. His ability to direct the offense and mentor younger players could prove valuable to Dallas as they contend with Irving’s absence. The coming offseason will be pivotal in determining Paul’s next destination and how his veteran presence will impact a potential new team.