The Los Angeles Clippers know that they have a big void at the point guard position. It was not always that way, particularly when Chris Paul was still around for a time. Though this is not to disregard the efforts of Patrick Beverly, the fact remains that the Clips need to have someone who has a more well-rounded game if they are to vie for the NBA championship.
Though Paul is no spring chicken, he baffled a lot of people during the 2019-20 NBA season. Most figured that with a fat contract, the 6-foot-1 guard was just going through the motions of finishing his career with the Oklahoma City Thunder. But that did not seem to be the case.
Paul put up a good performance, averaging 17.6 points, 6.7 assists and 5.0 rebounds in 31.5 minutes of action per Basketball-Reference. But the notable thing to note here is that he played in 70 regular-season games, the most he has had since the 2015-16 season with the Clippers. In short, CP3 was able to do something to keep himself healthy with the Thunder.
There is mutual interest between Chris Paul and the Clippers on a reunion, via @ryenarussillo
Kawhi Leonard even reached out to Chris Paul about potentially joining the Clippers. pic.twitter.com/lUZjqTO4fQ — Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) November 12, 2020
That performance drew the attention of teams who needed a veteran guard. Heading into a new season, the Los Angeles Lakers and the Clippers are among the teams interested in getting the fourth overall pick of the 2005 NBA Draft to their side.
However, that is easier said than done. The reality is that Paul still carries a hefty salary where he is still owed roughly $85 million for the next two NBA seasons. Given that the Clippers and especially the Lakers do not have the luxury of cap space, luring the 10-time All-Star will not be easy.
It would have to involve other players or a third team to consummate. But between the Lakers and the Clippers, it appears the latter is more serious about reuniting with the same player who suited up for them from 2011 to 2017.
According to Ryen Russillo in a podcast, Kawhi Leonard is also trying to convince Paul to join the Clippers next season. However, that would take several scenarios to fulfill. A buyout with the Thunder is possible although the chances of Paul agreeing to one is not looking good. It would need to include a reasonable amount to convince Paul to settle.
Paul would be a fine addition to the Clippers or even the Lakers. But unless either team can work out something to cover the remainder of his lofty contract, getting a deal done will take some time unless other factors sink in.
