Following the splashy free-agent addition of three-time All-Star Bradley Beal, the Los Angeles Clippers are actively searching for a veteran playmaker to solidify their backcourt depth, and Chris Paul appears to be at the center of those plans.
During a virtual press conference discussing the Beal signing, Clippers President of Basketball Operations Lawrence Frank didn’t shy away from the franchise’s interest in a reunion with Paul, who played six seasons with the team from 2011 to 2017.
Clippers “Strongly Considering” Reunion With Chris Paul After Beal Signing
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“What I’d say about Chris is he’s a great player, and he’s a great Clipper,” Frank said. “He obviously possesses some of the qualities we just referenced. Of course, we’re strongly, strongly considering him.”
Paul, now 40, spent last season with the San Antonio Spurs, where he played in all 82 games and averaged 8.8 points, 7.4 assists, and 3.6 rebounds while shooting 42.7% from the field and 37.7% from three. Though no longer the high-usage star he once was, Paul’s experience, leadership, and court vision make him a compelling addition for a Clippers team aiming to contend in the loaded Western Conference.
If signed, Paul would join a familiar backcourt. He and James Harden were teammates in Houston from 2017–2019, guiding the Rockets to the 2018 Western Conference Finals. Despite a reportedly strained ending to their partnership, the two are now believed to be on good terms.
Frank also noted Harden’s influence in luring Beal to Los Angeles and emphasized the importance of depth and flexibility: “We’ll continue to look to reinforce our playmaking and ball handling. You literally need everyone on your roster to contribute throughout the season.”
The Clippers are expected to open the 2025–26 campaign with Harden, Beal, Kawhi Leonard, John Collins, and Ivica Zubac in the starting five. Adding Paul to a backcourt rotation that includes Kris Dunn and Bogdan Bogdanović would give head coach Tyronn Lue a surplus of veteran ballhandlers — and some insurance in a league where health and availability often dictate postseason success.
With roster spots limited, the Clippers are targeting players who can thrive in defined reserve roles. Frank made that clear: “There’s no preconceived misconceptions. Anyone coming in understands what the role is.”
Paul, a 12-time All-Star and future Hall of Famer, appears ready to embrace that next chapter — potentially back where his legend once soared.