Chris Paul is preparing to rejoin the Los Angeles Clippers for what is expected to be his final NBA season in 2025-26, signing a one-year contract valued at $3.6 million. The 40-year-old veteran aims to lead the team toward its first-ever NBA championship as he returns to the franchise where he enjoyed significant success earlier in his career.
Paul previously played for the Clippers from 2011 to 2017, during which he earned five All-Star appearances and played a central role in guiding the team to the playoffs every season. His return signals a renewed push by the Clippers to capitalize on his veteran leadership while adding new talent to their roster.
Clippers Bolster Roster to Strengthen Championship Chances
This offseason, the Clippers have aggressively enhanced their lineup by signing key players such as Brook Lopez and John Collins. With established stars Kawhi Leonard and James Harden already on the squad, adding Paul and recently acquired Bradley Beal creates a formidable core focused on championship ambitions. The team‘s strategic player acquisitions aim to deepen their roster’s talent and experience ahead of the new season.
Chris Paul’s decision to return to Los Angeles reflects both his desire to compete for a title and the Clippers’ commitment to building a championship-caliber team around him and their established stars. This combination of veteran savvy and younger skills highlights their determination to compete at the highest level.
Paul’s Career Highlights and Longevity
Throughout his illustrious NHL career, Paul has contributed to several teams, including the Houston Rockets, Oklahoma City Thunder, Phoenix Suns, Golden State Warriors, and Charlotte Hornets. He is ranked second in NBA history for both career assists and steals, trailing only John Stockton, underscoring his consistent impact and all-around excellence on the court.
Even as he approaches the twilight of his career, Paul continues to deliver valuable performances. Last season with the San Antonio Spurs, he averaged 8.8 points, 7.4 assists, and 3.6 rebounds over 82 games, becoming the first NBA player in history to compete in every game during his 20th season or later. His durability and high basketball IQ remain critical assets.
Career Achievements Reflecting Skill and Dedication
Paul’s career averages include 17 points, 9.2 assists, and 4.4 rebounds per game, with shooting splits of 47% from the field and 37% from three-point range. His accolades comprise 11 All-NBA team selections and seven appearances on the NBA All-Defensive first team, illustrating his defensive prowess and all-around game impact.
His return to the Clippers is not only a reunion but also an opportunity for the franchise to leverage his veteran presence and playoff experience. As the Clippers pursue their first championship, Paul’s leadership could prove pivotal in guiding the team through the challenges of a competitive Western Conference.
Significance of Paul’s Return and Outlook for the Clippers
Chris Paul’s arrival in Los Angeles is a calculated move for both the player and the franchise. It reinforces the Clippers’ resolve to contend seriously for a championship, while for Paul, it offers the chance to conclude his career on a high note with a team loaded with top-tier talent. His role will likely extend beyond on-court contributions, providing mentorship to younger players and strategic direction during critical moments.
As the 2025-26 season unfolds, all eyes will be on the Clippers’ ability to integrate their veteran stars and new additions into a cohesive unit capable of competing deep into the playoffs. Paul’s final season with the Clippers could define the legacy of both the player and the franchise in the years to come.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Are Chris Paul and LeBron still friends?
A. He is a mentor and role model for many in the league, such as Bronny James from the Los Angeles Lakers. It’s well known that he and LeBron James share a close friendship. However, some might not be aware of his bond with LeBron’s son, Bronny.
Q. Is Chris Paul Bronny’s godfather?
A. James’s godfather is Chris Paul, an NBA All-Star, who is also a good friend of James’s dad. In 2020, James joined the esports group FaZe Clan.
Q. Why did Chris Paul call Tony Brothers a TikToker?
A. Chris Paul mentioned that he referred to Tony Brothers as a “Tik Toker,” which led to his first technical foul. He then commented on Brothers having too much authority, which resulted in a second technical. (Paul had recently shared a TikTok of a Brothers interview on his Instagram story.)
Q. Why does Chris Paul wear number 3?
A. Johnson chose the number 3 to pay tribute to his childhood idol. He explained to KENS5, “As the third child in my family, I admired Chris Paul. I spent a lot of time watching Paul’s highlights during my youth.”