Chris Paul signs a one year contract with the LA Clippers at 40, CP3 returns to boost playoff push, again shape depth chart and hunt that elusive championship in his ultimate season.
🏀Chris Paul’s Return Context
Who is Chris Paul (CP3)?
Christopher Emmanuel Paul as known as CP3 is acknowledge one of the excellent floor generals in NBA history. A twelve time All-Star and elven time All-NBA selection. He ranks second all-time in his career assists (~12,499) and steals (~2,717). He is Known for his leadership, elite basketball IQ and competitiveness. Paul redesigned team success during the Lob City era with the Clippers from 2011–17.
His Journey Since Leaving the Clippers
- Following 2017, Paul acquired the Houston Rockets, Oklahoma City Thunder, Phoenix Suns where he reached the NBA Finals, 2021, Golden State Warriors and recently he joined the San Antonio Spurs .
- In between 2024–25, with the Spurs, Paul proved his longevity starting all 82 games, averaging 8.8 PPG and 7.4 APG and mentoring young talents like Victor Wembanyama.
- In July 2025, Paul declared that the 2025-26 season would likely be his last NBA campaign and the desire for a final title chase.
Latest News: The agreement involving the Clippers & the implications
📅 Date: July 21, 2025
📢 Contract Details: Chris Paul has signed a one-year, $3.6 million deal with the Los Angeles Clippers, returning for his 21st NBA season .
Why This Move Matters
- Homecoming: Paul returns to the franchise where he flourished—with 4,023 assists and 2.2 steals per game across six seasons—helping make the Clippers a perennial 50+ win team.
- Capitalize on Talent: The Clippers have aggressively rebuilt, adding stars Bradley Beal, John Collins, and Brook Lopez in free agency. Paul’s veteran savviness will complement the likes of Kawhi Leonard, James Harden, and Ivica Zubac.
- Last Dance Motivation: At 40, Paul is chasing his first NBA championship in what could be his final season. The Clippers’ supporting cast aims to deliver that missing piece.
Chris Paul’s Role on the Clippers
Starter? Sixth Man? Mentor?
Paul isn’t expected to reclaim his former starting role. Instead, his return deepens the Clippers’ backcourt, offering:
- Floor Leadership: As a high-IQ guard, he’ll strengthen team chemistry, especially in tight playoff matchups.
- Spot Starts & Clutch Time: Paul can close games or start when Harden rests or deals with load management, adding tactical flexibility.
- Leadership in Locker Room: His mentorship benefits rising talents and helps maintain focus under playoff pressure.
Updated Clippers Depth Chart
Thanks to Paul’s inclusion, here’s the projected 2025–26 Clippers depth chart, with notes on CP3’s fit:
| Position | Starter | 2nd Option | 3rd Option |
|---|---|---|---|
| PG | James Harden | Chris Paul (CP3) | Kris Dunn |
| SG | Bradley Beal | Bogdan Bogdanović | James Harden / Cam Christie |
| SF | Kawhi Leonard | Derrick Jones Jr. | Nicolas Batum |
| PF | John Collins | Nicolas Batum | – |
| C | Ivica Zubac | Brook Lopez | – |
- Point Guard: Harden plays the primary role. CP3 rotates in boosting ball control and court organization. Dunn remains a reliable third option.
- Shooting Guard: With Beal leading, Bogdanović handles secondary shooting. Harden backing up.
- Frontcourt: Strong rotation with Leonard, Collins, Batum, Zubac, and Lopez forming a deep and skilled unit.
Title Contender? Strengths & Weaknesses
Offensive Boosts
- Sharpened Half-Court Sets: Paul’s precision passing elevates options for shooters and bigs.
- Bench Scoring: CP3 adds scoring and playmaking off the pine veteran with savvy.
- Playoff Experience: His postseason pedigree can steer the Clippers through very high pressure series.
Defensive & Physical Concerns
- Deteriorating Athlete: At 40, Paul isn’t as quick, potentially affecting defense and endurance.
- Load Management: Expect strategic minutes to preserve effectiveness into April–June.
Team Chemistry
- Talent Integration: Paul must mesh with superstar egos especially Harden and Beal.
- Maximizing Stars: His selfless style fits well with Kawhi, Harden, and Beal for balanced offense.
Former Spurs guard Chris Paul is heading back to the Clippers after agreeing to a $3.6M one year deal his agents at CAA told ESPN. The deal is valued at almost one third of what the twelve-time All-Star made with the Spurs last season. pic.twitter.com/corqPO5CIj
— SpursRΞPORTΞR (@SpursReporter) July 21, 2025
Beyond the Court: Impact & Legacy
CP3’s Leadership
Paul’s off court presence is invaluable. he’s a mentor, union leader, and locker room anchor, a lot of qualities that always aid team cohesion during adversity.
Franchise Legacy
- His return caps his Clippers story: from igniting “Lob City” to stepping back in 2025 for a final homecoming.
- At 40, Paul is playing presumably his last season a symbolic closing chapter.
What’s Next? What to Watch
- Rotation adjustments: Coach Ty Lue’s task is maximize playing time for Harden, Paul, Beal, and Leonard.
- Playoff Rotation: During the playoff, Paul’s experience may be pivotal in critical situations.
- Championship Pursuit: With a loaded bench of top six players the Clippers have one of the deepest lineups in recent times.