Chris Paul might play until he’s 41, hints at two more seasons
Chris Paul isn’t ready to call it quits just yet. The veteran point guard told ESPN’s Malika Andrews on Monday that he’s considering playing beyond the upcoming season and potentially through 2026-27.
That would put him at 41 years old and in his 22nd NBA season.
Paul just signed with the Los Angeles Clippers, returning to the team where he spent six memorable seasons alongside Blake Griffin. But things will look different this time around.
He’s taking on a backup role behind James Harden instead of being the team’s floor general. The Clippers have assembled quite a roster with Kawhi Leonard, Bradley Beal, John Collins, and Brook Lopez all in the mix.
The 12-time All-Star agreed to a one-year, $3.6 million veteran’s minimum deal with the Clippers about a week ago. He had other options – both the Milwaukee Bucks and Dallas Mavericks showed interest.
But for Paul, the decision was simple.
“It was a no-brainer. If I’m really honest, I wanted to get back and play here by any means necessary,” Paul told ESPN’s Dave McMenamin on Monday.
Family played a huge role in his decision. Back in June, he mentioned on The Pat McAfee Show that playing near his family in Los Angeles was a priority for his 21st season.
Paul seems to be entering this chapter with a refreshed mindset.
“I’m going to try to do better and try to smile a little bit more this year,” he said. “I’m grateful, and I’m going to come out every single night, whatever that looks like, and try to make sure I show up for the team.”
A Clippers legend returns
Paul’s first stint with the Clippers was legendary. He earned five All-Star selections and made five All-NBA teams – the most in franchise history.
He also dished out 4,023 assists during that time, another franchise record.
Lawrence Frank, the team’s president of basketball operations, couldn’t hide his excitement about bringing Paul back.
“Chris is one of the most impactful players ever to wear a Clippers uniform and it’s appropriate that he returns to the team for this chapter of his career,” Frank said Monday. “He is joining us as a reserve point guard and is excited to fill whatever role Tyronn Lue asks him to play.”
Paul can still contribute at a high level. Last season with the San Antonio Spurs, he started all 82 games, averaging 8.8 points, 7.4 assists and 3.6 rebounds in 28 minutes per game.
His shooting remained solid too – 42.7% from the field and 37.7% from three-point range.
Paul isn’t the only aging star still going strong. Fellow NBA veteran LeBron James is entering his 23rd season in the league.