Veteran point guard Chris Paul has officially committed to returning to the Los Angeles Clippers for the next NBA season. Despite receiving interest from several teams including the Milwaukee Bucks, Dallas Mavericks, and Charlotte Hornets, Paul decided to reunite with the team where he previously spent a significant portion of his career. This move highlights Paul’s preference to stay close to home while continuing to compete at a high level.
NBA insider Shams Charania shared further details about Paul’s decision during an appearance on ESPN, explaining the mutual benefit for both the player and the Clippers.
Family and Team Needs Align in Paul’s Return
Charania emphasized that Chris Paul aimed to remain near his family in Los Angeles next season, while the Clippers were seeking a reserve guard to strengthen their bench, particularly at the point guard position. This alignment made the reunion an ideal fit for both parties.
Additionally, Charania shed light on Paul’s mindset heading into what appears to be the final stage of his career.
“I’m told Chris Paul is expected to retire after this season. He’s going to go through training camp, go through the season like he always does, see how it goes. But his plan is for this to be his final season. He got to do just that for a potential storybook finish to a 21-year illustrious Hall of Fame career,”
—Shams Charania, NBA Insider
Embracing a Reduced Role on a Competitive Team
Although Chris Paul had shown interest in joining a team where he could start, he has accepted a more limited role with the Clippers this upcoming season. According to Tomer Azarly of ClutchPoints, Paul understands that the Clippers’ already established and deep roster means he may not see extensive playing time every night.
“Chris Paul is returning to the franchise he helped get off the ground with the understanding that an established and deep roster means he may not be playing much every single night,”
—Tomer Azarly, ClutchPoints Reporter
Paul will likely serve as a valuable supporting guard behind stars like Kawhi Leonard and James Harden, contributing his veteran leadership and experience to complement the team’s core.
Paul’s NBA Journey Comes Full Circle in Los Angeles
Now 40 years old, Chris Paul began his NBA career with the New Orleans franchise before spending six impactful seasons with the Clippers. His return offers him a chance to conclude a remarkable 21-year NBA career in familiar surroundings and on a strong roster.
This move reflects both his personal wish to remain close to family and his professional goal to end his journey on a competitive note with a team he helped build.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Are Chris Paul and LeBron still friends?
A. He’s a mentor and role model for a lot of players in the league, like Bronny James from the Los Angeles Lakers. Paul and LeBron James are known to be very close friends. Many might not be aware of his connection with LeBron’s son, Bronny.
Q. Is Chris Paul Bronny’s godfather?
A. James’s godfather is Chris Paul, an NBA All-Star and a good friend of his dad. In 2020, James joined the esports group FaZe Clan.
Q. Why does Chris Paul wear 3?
A. Johnson chose the number 3 as a tribute to his childhood hero. “I was the third child in my family,” he shared with KENS5. “Chris Paul was my favorite player when I was young, and I watched many of his highlights.”
Q. Has Chris Paul had a ring?
A. Chris Paul, a point guard from North Carolina, could be remembered as an outstanding NBA player who never won a championship ring. His best chance was in 2021 when his team, the Phoenix Suns, led 2-0 in the NBA Finals. However, Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks won the next four games, claiming the championship.