Chris Paul returned to the Los Angeles Clippers on Monday, marking a significant moment in his NBA career after an eight-year absence. His homecoming was met with enthusiasm from nearly a thousand fans at the press conference, where the 40-year-old veteran was officially welcomed back wearing the iconic No. 3 jersey, highlighting the buzz surrounding this reunion.
The event quickly became emotional, as fans chanted “C-P-3!” before Paul could even address the crowd. The point guard appeared visibly moved, wiping away tears as he spoke about his decision to rejoin the Clippers, calling it “a no-brainer” when asked about his return. Fans’ warm reception underlined the enduring connection between Paul and the Los Angeles community.
James Harden’s reaction to Paul’s Clippers comeback
James Harden, Paul’s former teammate and close friend, reacted enthusiastically to the news by commenting “CRACKIN!” on social media, signaling approval and excitement about Paul’s return. Their deep bond dates back to their time together with the Houston Rockets, where they came close to reaching the NBA Finals in 2015 and 2017.
With their reunion on the Clippers, Harden and Paul aim to advance beyond their previous playoff successes. Both players are widely recognized among the NBA’s greatest, yet neither has secured a championship to date, motivating them to pursue this elusive achievement with renewed determination.
The Clippers have strengthened their roster further by adding Bradley Beal, Brook Lopez, and John Collins, positioning the team as a potentially formidable contender for the NBA title. Paul expressed his enthusiasm about the team’s offseason acquisitions and chemistry, stating,
“I’m just so excited about the moves that the team has made this offseason,”
he remarked.
“Brad coming to the team, Brook Lopez, all the young guys. I talked to James, I talked to Kawhi [Leonard], and I’m even more excited about what I think we have a chance to do.”
Background on Chris Paul’s departure from the Clippers
Chris Paul left the Clippers in 2017, driven by his desire to compete for a championship alongside Harden in Houston. At the time, Los Angeles was not prepared to offer Paul a long-term maximum contract. Consequently, the Clippers traded him to the Rockets to avoid losing him in free agency without compensation.
Reflecting on his exit, Paul acknowledged that the split “wasn’t the prettiest thing,” but he confirmed that he maintains a positive relationship with Clippers owner Steve Ballmer. This foundation has helped ease his transition back into the franchise this offseason.
Details of Chris Paul’s contract with the Clippers
Paul signed a one-year veteran’s minimum deal worth $3.6 million to return to the Clippers after spending the previous season with the San Antonio Spurs. At 40 years old, the veteran point guard is embarking on his 21st NBA season, though he has not yet confirmed whether this will be his final year in the league.
During his press conference, Paul conveyed excitement for the season ahead without fixating on what lies beyond it, saying,
“I am approaching [the season] with a lot of excitement, not necessarily what’s next,”
“I’m just trying to be in it,”
which reflected his focus on contributing to the team’s efforts in any capacity.
Last season with the Spurs, Paul achieved a career milestone by playing in all 82 regular-season games, averaging 8.8 points on 42.75% shooting, along with 7.4 assists and 3.6 rebounds per game.
While Paul’s role with the Clippers is expected to differ from his previous prominent responsibilities, especially given the team’s depth and talent, he welcomed the opportunity to provide leadership and experience.
On this shift, Paul added,
“My role on this team is obviously different from what it’s been the past 20 years, being in the NBA,”
“But showing up every day, if I can show some of the guys what it looks like every day to clock in and clock out, I’m excited for it.”
What the Clippers’ strengthened lineup means for the season ahead
The presence of Chris Paul alongside stars like James Harden and Kawhi Leonard, combined with newcomers Bradley Beal, Brook Lopez, and John Collins, creates a roster with both veteran experience and youthful energy. This blend fuels high hopes for the Clippers as they chase their first-ever NBA championship.
Paul’s emotional return and Harden’s encouraging response highlight the sense of renewed ambition within the team. As the Clippers prepare to face stiff competition in the upcoming season, the collaboration between these seasoned stars could prove crucial in overcoming past playoff disappointments and altering the franchise’s trajectory.