NBA Free Agency: Chris Paul Agrees to Deal with LA Clippers

Free agent guard Chris Paul has agreed to a deal with the LA Clippers for next season, ESPN’s Shams Charania reported. Charania said it will mark Paul’s 21st NBA season and likely his final.

Paul, 40, had multiple suitors such as the Milwaukee Bucks, Charlotte Hornets and Dallas Mavericks, but the 12-time All-Star chose the contending Clippers and their shared history in Los Angeles.

It’s been an active offseason for the Clippers. Although the franchise traded Norman Powell, the Clippers have added a large cast of veterans to their roster, including guard Bradley Beal, forward John Collins, center Brook Lopez and now Paul. Charania said they also had conversations with former Portland Trail Blazers guard Malcolm Brogdon about a partnership, but ultimately landed on a reunion with Paul.

Paul played six seasons with the Clippers from 2011-2017, serving as the star orchestrator of the Lob City era.

The vet spent last season with the San Antonio Spurs. In 82 appearances (all starts), Paul averaged 8.8 points, 7.4 assists, 3.6 rebounds, 1.3 steals and 28 minutes per game. He shot 42.7% from the field, 37.7% on 3s and 92.4% from the free throw line.