Chris Paul is heading back to where he spent some of his best years — reportedly agreeing to a one-year, $3.6 million deal with the Los Angeles Clippers for the 2025–26 NBA season, likely the 40-year-old’s final year in the league.
The 12-time All-Star played for the Clippers from 2011–2017, guiding the franchise to six straight playoff appearances and earning five All-Star selections during that span. His return comes as the Clippers continue an aggressive offseason, having already signed Bradley Beal, Brook Lopez, and John Collins, alongside stars Kawhi Leonard and James Harden.
Though no longer in his prime, Paul remains a valuable contributor. With the San Antonio Spurs in 2024–25, he averaged 8.8 points, 7.4 assists, and 3.6 rebounds — and remarkably became the first player in NBA history to appear in all 82 games in his 20th season or later.
Over his career, Paul has averaged 17.0 points, 9.2 assists, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.01 steals per game, shooting 47.0% from the field and 37.0% from beyond the arc. His résumé includes 11 All-NBA selections and seven All-Defensive First Team honors.
Having also played for the Hornets, Rockets, Thunder, Suns, and Warriors, Paul enters his 21st season ranked second all-time in both assists (12,499) and steals (2,717) — trailing only John Stockton in both categories.
Now back in Clippers colors, Paul’s leadership and court vision could be the final piece in the franchise’s long-awaited championship puzzle.
