Chris Paul, a beloved figure in the history of the LA Clippers, is making a triumphant return for his 21st season, the team announced on Monday.
According to Chris B. Haynes, it’s a one-year deal worth $3.6 million.
Paul, 40, played for the Clippers from 2011 to 2017, averaging 18.8 points, 9.8 assists, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.2 steals across 409 games. He led the team to the playoffs in each of his six seasons and left as the organization’s all-time leader in assists.
“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,” said Clippers President of Basketball Operations Lawrence Frank in a press release. “Chris will help fortify our backcourt with his exceptional ballhandling, playmaking, and shooting. He is joining us as a reserve point guard and is excited to fill whatever role T Lue asks him to play. He wants to be part of the group, and we’re fortunate to have him back.”
Last season, Paul played all 82 games for San Antonio, where he averaged 8.8 points, 7.4 assists, and 3.6 rebounds in 28.0 minutes.
The 20-year veteran holds career averages of 17.0 points, 9.2 assists, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.0 steals in 1,354 games (1,314 starts) with New Orleans, Houston, Oklahoma City, Phoenix, Golden State, San Antonio, and the Clippers. Paul has been an NBA All-Star 12 times (2008-16, 2020-22), earned All-NBA recognition 11 times (2008-09, 2011-16, 2020-22), been named to the All-Defensive team nine times (2008-09, 2011-17) and is a two-time Olympic gold medalist (2008, 2012).
In 2021, Paul was named to the NBA’s 75th anniversary team.
The Clippers are gearing up for an exciting season ahead. With the notable additions of Paul, Bradley Beal, Brook Lopez, and John Collins, along with the re-signing of James Harden, Los Angeles is poised for a deep playoff run.
Leave a Reply