The Los Angeles Clippers continue making waves this offseason with veteran additions.
Following the Bradley Beal acquisition, the franchise secured Chris Paul’s return in what’s expected to be his final NBA season.
Paul chose the Clippers over competing offers from Milwaukee, Charlotte, and Dallas. The 40-year-old point guard prioritized nostalgia over potential starting opportunities elsewhere.
Twelve-time All-Star Chris Paul has agreed to a deal with the Los Angeles Clippers, CAA’s Steven Heumann, Ty Sullivan and Jessica Holtz told ESPN. Paul had multiple suitors, but chose the contending Clippers and their shared history in L.A. for his likely final, 21st NBA season. pic.twitter.com/qC640MFFeI
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 21, 2025
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Paul spent six productive seasons with the Clippers from 2011-2017, earning five All-Star selections and five All-NBA team honors during that stretch.
His return marks the second major reunion in recent weeks, following Damian Lillard’s decision to rejoin Portland.
Clippers’ veteran roster draws Lakers comparisons
The veteran’s homecoming sparked social media discussions about other potential reunions, with fans speculating about Russell Westbrook potentially returning to the Oklahoma City Thunder. Westbrook remains available after completing his Denver stint last season.
Paul’s addition also creates comparisons to the Lakers’ 2021-22 veteran-heavy roster that featured LeBron James, Dwight Howard, Carmelo Anthony, Westbrook, and others.
The current Clippers lineup includes Paul, Beal, James Harden, Kawhi Leonard, and Brook Lopez, all established veterans.
“This is a 75 win team if it was 2018,” one fan posted on social media, highlighting how the roster would have appeared five years ago. The sentiment reflects both excitement and concerns about the collective age of the core players.
This is a 75 win team if it was 2018
— Bobby 0xelrod 😜 (@0x_Capital) July 21, 2025
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The Lakers’ experiment with multiple aging stars produced a bad result, as that season they failed to reach the playoffs and only finished 11th in the Western Conference.
Paul still contributes despite advanced age
Paul demonstrated continued effectiveness during his San Antonio tenure, playing all 82 games while averaging 8.8 points, 7.4 assists, and 3.2 rebounds. His leadership helped develop Victor Wembanyama throughout the rookie’s adjustment period.
The veteran guard may not replicate his prime production, but his court vision and basketball IQ remain valuable assets.
Paul’s role with the Clippers likely involves leading the second unit while providing mentorship to younger players.
His durability last season addresses previous injury concerns that plagued recent campaigns. Paul’s ability to stay healthy could determine whether the Clippers’ veteran gamble succeeds or follows the Lakers’ disappointing precedent.
Photo by Kevork Djansezian/Getty ImagesChampionship window depends on health management
The Clippers’ success hinges on keeping their veteran core healthy for 60-plus regular season games and playoff runs. Their talent level remains competitive when fully available, but age-related concerns persist across the roster.
Paul’s return provides another organizational leadership and playoff experience. His presence could stabilize the second unit while allowing Harden to focus on closing games alongside Leonard and Beal.
If the Clippers maintain roster health, their veteran experience could prove valuable during high-pressure playoff moments where seasoned players typically excel.