Chris Paul to the Clippers: NBA Legend Returns for 21st and Final Season
After weeks of speculation and anticipation, the LA Clippers have officially signed veteran point guard Chris Paul to a one-year deal for the veteran minimum, marking his emotional return to the franchise where he spent six of his prime seasons. The announcement, made Monday, brings the 12-time All-Star back to Los Angeles for what is expected to be his final NBA campaign.
Chris Paul last played for the San Antonio Spurs, starting all 82 games and averaging 7.4 assists with just 1.6 turnovers per game—an impressive feat for a player who turned 40 in May. Now, he’ll serve as a reserve point guard behind former teammate James Harden, reinforcing the Clippers’ backcourt and addressing one of the team’s biggest weaknesses: playmaking and ball security.
A Full-Circle Moment for CP3
Paul’s first stint with the Clippers (2011–2017) transformed the franchise. His leadership sparked a historic run of 14 straight winning seasons, the longest active streak in the NBA today. During that time, he led the team in assists (4,023) and ranks among the top 10 in nearly every major statistical category in Clippers history, including:
-
2nd in Steals (902)
-
5th in 3-point Field Goals (618)
-
6th in Points (7,674)
-
6th in Free Throws (1,656)
-
6th in Double-Doubles (195)
-
8th in Minutes Played (13,885)
Clippers President of Basketball Operations Lawrence Frank praised the move, saying, “Chris is one of the most impactful players ever to wear a Clippers uniform. He’s joining us as a reserve point guard and is excited to fill whatever role T Lue asks him to play.”
Why the Clippers Made This Move
The Clippers struggled last season in turnover control, ranking 23rd in turnover rate and assist-to-turnover ratio. James Harden had one of the highest turnover counts in the league, second only to Trae Young. Bringing in Paul adds a calm, veteran presence with elite ball-handling and decision-making—exactly what the Clippers need as they aim for a deep playoff run.
While Paul and Harden had a rocky split in Houston back in 2019, sources indicate there are no lingering issues between the two. In fact, Harden won his lone NBA MVP award in the 2017–18 season—with Paul as his backcourt partner.
The Final Chapter in a Storied Career
Paul has made it clear that this will likely be his final season. Speaking with Jemele Hill last month, he said he intends to play “at the most, a year.” His desire to be closer to family, who remained in Los Angeles while he bounced between five teams over the last eight seasons, made the Clippers an ideal destination.
He even attended a Clippers playoff game at Intuit Dome earlier this year, hinting at his possible return. Now, that vision is reality.
With career averages of 17.0 points, 9.2 assists, and 4.4 rebounds on 47.0% FG and 87.1% FT shooting, Paul enters his 21st season as one of the most accomplished point guards in NBA history and a member of the league’s 75th Anniversary Team.
Final Thoughts
Chris Paul to the Clippers is more than just a transaction—it’s a farewell tour in familiar territory. His leadership, IQ, and experience will not only help the Clippers on the court but also mentor a roster aiming to capture the franchise’s elusive first NBA championship.
Whether he lifts a trophy or not, Chris Paul’s return to Los Angeles is a fitting end to a legendary NBA journey.
