Word is out: Chris Paul will return to the Los Angeles Clippers for the upcoming season. The reunion, which comes after an eight-year gap, marks Paul’s 21st season in the NBA. The excitement surrounding Paul’s comeback to the Clippers is palpable, but the situation he’s entering now is vastly different from his previous stint with the team.
During Paul’s last tenure with the Clippers, they shared an arena with the Los Angeles Lakers. More significantly, Paul’s role won’t be as the primary franchise player, a status he hasn’t held since departing L.A. in 2017. He’s now joining a team built around Kawhi Leonard and James Harden, likely embracing a supporting role off the bench, a rarity in his illustrious career.
However, roster composition, playing time, and future goals took a back seat on Monday as the seasoned Paul, now 40, was formally reintroduced as a Clipper. Instead, the focus was on Paul’s evident joy in returning to the team where he enjoyed a significant portion of his career.
Paul described the decision as a straightforward one.
“It was a no brainer,” Paul mentioned. “I was doing an interview earlier and talking about how, in this lifestyle, there are many who try to dictate your narrative. While on vacation with my family, I saw stories suggesting I’d only go somewhere if I was starting or had specific conditions. But for me, the gratitude I feel for having played this long, the easiest decision involves my family. It’s about being around them more, having that chance, and competing for a championship.”
Clippers build momentum in the offseason as Chris Paul’s arrival completes the roster
Brad Botkin
Paul avoided directly answering about potentially stepping away from the sport after the next season. His current mindset is focused on the immediate joy of being closer to his family. During his time with the Oklahoma City Thunder, Phoenix Suns, Golden State Warriors and, most recently, the San Antonio Spurs, Paul lived separately from his family. That separation is now coming to an end.
Upon becoming a free agent following his season in San Antonio, Paul communicated that his primary goal was to play near his L.A. home. This desire made the Clippers the likely destination. The ability to return home to family after games is a luxury he hasn’t experienced in half a decade.
“In all honesty, I was set on returning and playing here, regardless of the circumstances,” Paul stated. “The team’s makeup didn’t matter. I simply wanted to be home with the Clippers. I’m genuinely thrilled with the moves the team made this offseason, welcoming [Bradley Beal], Brook Lopez, and the young players. After speaking with James [Harden] and Kawhi [Leonard], I’m even more enthusiastic about what we can accomplish.”
How will Chris Paul contribute to the Clippers?
The Clippers have revitalized their roster this offseason, adding Beal, Lopez, Paul, and John Collins. While the additions might evoke a 2010s-era feel, the depth could be L.A.’s advantage in a competitive Western Conference. Historically, the Clippers’ obstacle hasn’t been depth but rather health. The team’s success hinges on Leonard’s fitness.
Beyond health, integrating new personalities into the locker room will be crucial. Although Paul isn’t at his peak, he’s recognized as a strong voice wherever he plays. His fierce competitiveness might not always resonate with everyone, and past interactions with Harden have circulated online.
Bradley Beal extends a warm welcome to Chris Paul with a thoughtful gesture
Shakiel Mahjouri
The announcement of Paul joining the Clippers brought renewed attention to a moment between him and Harden during their time in Houston. A clip of Paul offering Harden a fist bump, which Harden seemingly rejected, resurfaced. This was followed by what appeared to be a disagreement about an in-game incident.
Paul addressed the incident, suggesting it was a consequence of their competitive natures.
“We reflected on our time in Houston, and it’s amusing because the clip that’s been circulating isn’t even the funniest moment. That was simply our dynamic,” Paul said. “I believe that’s what made that team exceptional. We challenged each other, and I can genuinely say that team was among the most enjoyable I’ve been a part of. James is someone who loves being in the gym constantly. To have this reunion after those years and the success we achieved is something special. We both know there’s unfinished business, and we have the opportunity to address it.”
The Clippers, following a 50-32 season and a first-round playoff exit against the Denver Nuggets, will be a team to watch in the West. Paul’s addition is a significant factor, but the injury concerns and aging roster present challenges. If fully healthy, this Clippers team could rival the reigning champion Thunder in the West. Currently, they hold +1800 odds to win the title next season at FanDuel, placing them sixth in the Western Conference.
Achieving that outcome will require favorable conditions, but Paul believes the team is capable of a championship pursuit.
