Chris Paul, nearing 40 years old, faces a crucial decision about his NBA future this summer, with the veteran potentially closing out a Hall of Fame-worthy career. According to former teammate Matt Barnes, a major factor influencing Paul’s next team choice will be how close it keeps him to his family, as Paul has spent much of the last eight years away from them. This “Chris Paul family proximity decision” could shape where the 12-time All-Star ends up in free agency.
Frequent Moves Have Kept Paul Apart from Home
Paul’s family roots took hold during his six seasons with the Los Angeles Clippers, where he helped build a life and household in California. Since leaving the Clippers, he has played for several teams, including the Phoenix Suns and Golden State Warriors, both in California but still separated from his primary family residence. Other stops, such as Houston, Oklahoma City, and most recently San Antonio, have demanded long distances that have taken a personal toll on him.
Matt Barnes Highlights the Impact of Time Away
Barnes, who has maintained a close relationship with Paul and even lives nearby, shared on the podcast All the Smoke how this distance is affecting Paul.
“We live right down the street from [the Paul’s]. He’s missing a lot of time with the family, and I know that’s starting to wear on him at this age,”
Barnes said.
“Close to 40. Shout out, played all 82 games last season for San Antonio. I’m sure he was a great mentor for them young dudes.”
While acknowledging Paul’s valuable veteran presence on the Spurs, Barnes emphasized that the desire to be closer to home will likely be a major factor in his upcoming decision.
Possible Destinations Near Home
Barnes expressed hope that Paul’s next destination might be one of the Los Angeles teams or possibly the Sacramento Kings, both closer to his family base.
“And let’s keep it real, one of the greatest point guards of all time. I hope there’s an opportunity for him to get to an LA team, first and foremost, but if not, maybe the Kings? … But hopefully just get him closer to the family,”
Barnes added.
In choosing these teams, Paul would gain proximity to his family while potentially offering his leadership skills to franchises that could benefit greatly from his experience.
Barnes Reflects on His Own Journey and Family Considerations
As a 45-year-old former journeyman who played for nine franchises over a 14-year NBA career, Barnes relates deeply to Paul’s situation. He recalled his own retirement decision after winning a championship with the Golden State Warriors in 2017.
“When I decided to retire out the blue, it’s because I was missing the kids so much,”
Barnes said.
“So I just know how hard [it is], that s**t becomes a job when you’re gone half the year and you don’t live [with them]. It’s a lot.”
This personal experience gives Barnes insight into the challenges Paul faces balancing career ambitions and family life.
Leadership and Potential Team Fit for Chris Paul
Barnes noted rumors linking Paul to a reunion with the Suns or Clippers, teams where his leadership could provide substantial value.
“There’s rumors that the Suns or Clippers can have a reuniting situation with him,”
he said. Barnes described Paul’s leadership style as straightforward and uncompromising, noting,
“CP is weird because he’d old school. He’s gonna tell you what you need to hear, not what you want to hear.”
Although Paul’s on-court contributions might no longer match his prime years, his leadership and basketball IQ remain assets that any team would find beneficial.
Looking Ahead: The Significance of Paul’s Choice
The looming decision for Chris Paul carries significance not only for his career’s final chapter but also for how he balances professional goals with personal fulfillment. His choice to prioritize family proximity could influence team dynamics in the coming NBA season and impact roster construction for franchises interested in adding his veteran presence. As a seasoned point guard with unmatched leadership qualities, Paul’s next move will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike, marking a thoughtful conclusion to an extraordinary career.