After an eight-year absence, Chris Paul returns to the LA Clippers for what is expected to be his final NBA season. This decision, announcing Paul’s homecoming to the City of Angels, aligned perfectly with his goal to finish his long career near his family, delighting fans and peers alike.
Reactions from Friends and Fellow Players on Paul’s Return
Among the most enthusiastic supporters is former NBA star Dwyane Wade, a close friend of Paul. Wade expressed his excitement over Paul’s reunion with the Clippers, emphasizing the significance of Paul’s previous six seasons in Los Angeles as a defining part of his career. On Wade’s podcast, when the topic was introduced by Chris Johnson, others including D Wright and Bob Metelus joined in, laughing at how widely known the plan was before the official announcement.
That was no secret. It was the worst kept secret in the world,
Wade exclaimed.
Wade went on to praise Paul’s remarkable career and highlighted how important it is for athletes to have control over their final playing days.
This is what the league needs. Now we can send CP off the way he needs to be sent off, and we know where to find him,
Wade added.
Paul’s Desire to Finish Career Near Family and Friends
Wade elaborated on Paul’s motivation to conclude his 20-year NBA journey back in LA, close to family, calling it a perfect ending for an athlete of Paul’s stature.
When a player gets what they want, when a guy who’s played 20 years in this league, who’s been the ultimate professional, who’s one of the greatest to play this game, to be able to say, ‘I want to play one more year, and I want to play it at home,’ and obviously back with the Clippers is where he wanted to be, back in LA with his family,
Wade said, receiving agreement from his guests.
We talked about Portland, the Clippers. You did it right, CP,
Wade reiterated.
Johnson echoed this sentiment by noting that Paul’s choice reflects what many professional athletes wish for: to perform at the highest level while maintaining a stable family life close to home.
Chris Paul’s Commitment to Family and Basketball Leadership
Chris Paul has spent the past six years away from his family to protect their stability, considering his children experienced attending five different schools in as many years. He prioritized their well-being over his own convenience, a decision he shared publicly.
I’m going to make it hard on me, so it doesn’t have to be hard on my kids,
Paul revealed during his interview on DeMar DeRozan’s Dinners With DeMar.
Johnson also highlighted Paul’s role beyond the court, particularly his dedication to mentoring his nephew, who has had a remarkable summer under Paul’s guidance.
[Little Chris] is the face of Campbell Hall right now. Nephew had a h*** of a summer. Chris is coaching him, and so when you look at what he’s doing, his moves are not even being made about him. He’s trying to lead the game the right way, but he is leading his family even more, bro,
Johnson said, clearly moved.
Paul’s Impact with the Clippers and Future Prospects
During his first tenure with the Clippers, Chris Paul brought the team to the playoffs each season, marking an impressive period in the franchise’s history. Returning to the Clippers for this final season opens the possibility for Paul to close his career on a high note, potentially with a championship, an outcome fans hope for despite analysts’ doubts.
This return not only signals the continuation of Paul’s elite play but also highlights his commitment to balancing professional success with family life, a story that resonates throughout the NBA community and beyond.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Are Chris Paul and LeBron still friends?
A. He has turned into a mentor and role model for many in the league, such as Bronny James, a guard for the Los Angeles Lakers. It’s well-known that Paul and LeBron James share a strong friendship. However, fewer people might be aware of his connection with LeBron’s son, Bronny.
Q. Is Chris Paul a good 3 point shooter?
A. He’s made 38.8% of his three-point shots in his career, skilled at shooting when standing still or while moving. He rarely loses the ball and can help manage plays, especially in pick-and-roll situations. With playoff experience, he’s a smart player. He frequently drives toward the basket, often drawing fouls and scoring despite contact.