The Los Angeles Lakers should have their eyes trained on Chris Paul as the 40-year-old point guard finds himself at a crossroads. A free agent once again after a full season with the San Antonio Spurs, Paul faces perhaps his most personal decision yet—not just about basketball, but about family, legacy, and where he wants to close the final chapter of his NBA journey.
On The Pat McAfee Show, Paul gave his most candid update yet: “My decision is about my family more than anything. I’ve lived away from them the last six years. My son is 16. My daughter is 12. That’s the conversation.”
Chris Paul Eyes Final NBA Chapter With Lakers—And a Potential Hollywood Ending
Paul’s family lives in Los Angeles, where his roots have remained firmly planted ever since his days with the Clippers. And though retirement remains a possibility after two decades in the league, Paul made it clear he’s not done yet. “I still love to play basketball. I’m in the gym every day,” he said.
That revelation has reignited speculation that Paul’s final NBA stop could be a return to Los Angeles—this time, potentially with the Lakers. The move would reunite him with longtime friend LeBron James in what many see as a fitting finale for both stars. The Lakers, who lack a traditional point guard and need veteran leadership off the bench, could benefit from Paul’s savvy playmaking, mentoring, and court vision.
Despite a diminished role, Paul remained productive in San Antonio, averaging 8.8 points, 7.4 assists, and 3.6 rebounds on 42.7% shooting. For a Lakers team navigating roster questions and a tightening salary cap, Paul could provide critical stability off the bench—especially if he’s willing to sign at the veteran’s minimum.
There’s history, too. Paul was famously nearly traded to the Lakers in 2011 before then-commissioner David Stern vetoed the deal. That moment reshaped Paul’s career and the NBA landscape—but now, over a decade later, a return to L.A. could bring that saga full circle.
The Clippers, meanwhile, present a more complicated option. Though Paul is arguably the greatest player in franchise history, the team’s current trajectory—with James Harden likely staying and old tensions from their Houston days still lingering—makes a reunion less likely.
What’s clear is this: Chris Paul wants control of his exit. With his place in the Hall of Fame already cemented, he’s earned the right to prioritize what matters most. If that leads him to the Lakers and a final run with LeBron, it could be the storybook ending his career deserves.