Clippers Land Chris Paul: Can He Bring a Title to L.A. in His Farewell Season?

By Edcel Panganiban July 24, 2025 12:25

The Los Angeles Clippers have officially reunited with veteran point guard Chris Paul, who agreed to a one-year, veteran’s minimum deal worth approximately $3.6 million, marking what is widely expected to be his final NBA season. The 40-year-old Paul, a 12-time All-Star and future Hall of Famer, will return to the franchise where he played a pivotal role during the “Lob City” era from 2011 to 2017, leading the Clippers through their most successful stretch in history .

Paul’s return to Los Angeles is as much about legacy as it is about on-court contributions. Clippers president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank described the signing as a “natural fit,” highlighting Paul’s deep roots with the organization and his leadership qualities: “Chris was the best guy for the job as long as we all understood what the role was,” Frank said, emphasizing the careful conversations regarding Paul’s transition from starter to reserve point guard. Despite his age, Paul demonstrated remarkable durability last season with the San Antonio Spurs, starting all 82 games and averaging 8.8 points, 7.4 assists, and 3.6 rebounds per game while shooting 42.7% from the field.

In this farewell season, Paul will slot behind established starters James Harden and Bradley Beal in a Clippers backcourt brimming with veteran talent. The roster also includes Kris Dunn and Bogdan Bogdanovic, providing coach Tyronn Lue with multiple capable ballhandlers. Frank noted that playing time may be managed carefully: “There will be nights Chris plays a lot and there will be nights he does not,” a reflection of Paul’s new role and the Clippers’ depth.

The Clippers’ front office and players clearly value Paul’s presence beyond the stat sheet. Frank lauded Paul’s impact on team culture and his unselfish willingness to accept a diminished role in pursuit of a championship. The reunion also reunites Paul with Harden, his former Houston Rockets teammate, despite their turbulent shared history. Frank confirmed that both Harden and Kawhi Leonard were supportive of Paul’s signing, underscoring that they see him as a critical piece for contending in 2026.

On a symbolic note, newly signed guard Bradley Beal graciously ceded his iconic No. 3 jersey to Paul, who has worn the number throughout his illustrious career. This gesture underscores the respect and reverence Paul commands within the clubhouse and organization.

As Paul embarks on his 21st NBA season, the question looms: Can he finally bring a title to Los Angeles in his swan song? Over his career, Paul has been lauded as one of the greatest floor generals in league history, averaging 17 points and 9.2 assists per game and ranking second all-time in both assists and steals. Yet an NBA championship has eluded him despite deep playoff runs for several teams, including the Clippers during his first tenure.

While no longer the primary offensive weapon, Paul’s mastery of game management, clutch passing, and defensive savvy remain invaluable. The Clippers believe that pairing him with stars Harden and Beal with complementary role players and a solid defensive core gives them a genuine shot at a title in a loaded Western Conference.

Ultimately, Chris Paul’s return to the Clippers is a narrative steeped in history, respect, and unfinished business. Whether the 40-year-old point guard can lead Los Angeles to its first NBA championship remains uncertain, but his enduring competitiveness and basketball IQ make him a key figure in the team’s quest. As Paul himself put it, “I’m excited to be back home in L.A. Ready to do whatever it takes.” His farewell season promises to be one of high stakes and high emotions for the Clippers and their fans.