With Bradley Beal heading to Los Angeles on a two-year deal, the Los Angeles Clippers may not be done making headlines. According to multiple NBA insiders, Chris Paul is now “closing in” on a deal to return to the franchise where he once helped define a generation.
Paul, 40, remains one of the most respected veterans in the NBA and would provide instant leadership to a LA team that’s loading up for one last serious playoff push with Kawhi Leonard and James Harden. Adding Beal was a bold swing — adding Paul would be a nostalgic masterstroke.
Los Angeles Clippers Still Favored To Land Chris Paul After Bradley Beal News
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According to Arizona Sports’ John Gambadoro, the Suns are officially out of the mix, while the Clippers have emerged as the most serious contender. NBA insider Jake Weinbach echoed that sentiment, stating Paul is “expected” to reunite with the Clippers for what could be his final NBA season.
The fit makes sense on every level. Paul’s family still lives in Los Angeles, and he’s made it clear that geography — and legacy — are factors in his free agency. Speaking at the American Black Film Festival earlier this summer, Paul said he’s only planning to play “at most, a year” more. A return to the franchise he helped transform into a contender in the Lob City era would be a fitting final act.
Last season in San Antonio, Paul started all 82 games and averaged 8.8 points, 7.4 assists, and 3.6 rebounds — a testament to his durability and value as a floor general, even in year 20. He also shot 37.7% from three and remained a steady defensive presence with 1.3 steals per game.
With Beal in the fold, and Norman Powell traded to Miami in the John Collins deal, the Clippers have both the minutes and the ball-handling need to welcome Paul back into the fold. More importantly, they have the playoff ambition.
Paul may not be the superstar he once was, but on a team looking to win now — and possibly say goodbye to this era in style — there may be no better place for CP3 to finish than where it all peaked. An LA reunion isn’t just sentimental. It’s strategic.