Chris Paul Returns to Clippers for 21st and Final NBA Season

Chris Paul is heading back to where it all clicked. After 20 legendary seasons in the NBA, the 12-time All-Star has signed a deal with the Los Angeles Clippers for what’s expected to be his final year on the court.

Paul, now 40, had options. The Milwaukee Bucks, Charlotte Hornets, and Dallas Mavericks all showed interest. But in the end, the decision was personal. He told The Pat McAfee Show back in June that he wanted to stay close to his family in Los Angeles. The Clippers offered both a competitive team and the comfort of home.

Why is this return so meaningful?

Chris Paul spent six seasons with the Clippers from 2011 to 2017. During that time, he became the face of the franchise. He made five All-Star appearances in a Clippers jersey and was selected to five All-NBA teams — both records for the team. He also racked up over 4,000 assists while in Los Angeles, more than any other Clipper in history.

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Lawrence Frank, the team’s president of basketball operations, spoke about what Paul means to the team. “Chris is one of the most impactful players ever to wear a Clippers uniform,” he said. “It’s appropriate that he returns for this chapter of his career.”

Paul will not be a starter this time. He’s coming in as a reserve point guard, ready to take on whatever role coach Tyronn Lue needs him to fill. The Clippers see him as a key veteran who can lead from the bench, steady the offense, and protect against injuries through the long 82-game grind.

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What does this mean for the Clippers’ roster?

The Clippers are not standing still. They’ve already made several big moves this offseason. Bradley Beal, John Collins, and Brook Lopez are all joining the team, adding depth and experience. They’ve even managed to maintain some salary cap flexibility, which keeps the door open for major moves in the next couple of years.

Chris Paul is coming in to support James Harden, who logged nearly 2,800 minutes last season. At 35, Harden will need rest. Paul’s presence helps cover that gap while also giving the team another voice on and off the court.

Last season, Paul played for the San Antonio Spurs and made headlines by suiting up for all 82 games — a rare feat for any player, let alone someone in their 20th season. That durability and dedication haven’t gone unnoticed.

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From being drafted fourth overall in 2005 by the New Orleans Hornets to becoming second all-time in both assists (12,499) and steals (2,717), Paul’s career speaks for itself. Now, as he gears up for one last season, fans will get to see him return to a city and franchise that shaped a huge part of his NBA story.

This isn’t just another player coming back for a final lap. It’s a full-circle moment for one of the greatest point guards to ever play the game.