As the NBA offseason begins to wind down, many are questioning why Chris Paul hasn’t signed yet. Why is he still available?
It’s not as though clubs are unaware of what they’re receiving with CP3 after 20 seasons. During his 82-game 2024 season, he averaged 8.8 points, 7.4 assists, and 3.6 rebounds, capping off a good season with the San Antonio Spurs. However, he’s stated that the upcoming season might be his last.
What’s the hold-up?
Chris Paul Focusing More on Family Rather than Money
It’s easy to say that Paul’s free agency is more about his priorities than it is about basketball. The Milwaukee Bucks and Charlotte Hornets, two teams that could use a veteran presence like his, reportedly made offers to him, but he declined. However, for Paul, being near home and finding the proper fit for what might be his final tour are more critical than minutes or money.
That makes things much more specific. We know Paul would want to live close to his family on the West Coast. As a result, there has been continuous speculation over his possible return to the Phoenix Suns or the Los Angeles Clippers, two teams he has already played for.
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Paul and Devin Booker led the Suns to the NBA Finals in 2021, marking one of the most memorable periods of the veteran’s career. His leadership was crucial to the team’s success, and they had genuine synergy. A reunion would undoubtedly touch some people’s emotions. John Gambadoro, a local insider, isn’t too convinced, though.
Sticking with what I said. I do believe that Chris wants to come here even if it means an extremely limited role. I just don’t see it happening. I will say highly unlikely. https://t.co/tCPQYvoRJO
— John Gambadoro (@Gambo987) July 2, 2025
“I do believe that Chris wants to come here even if it means an extremely limited role,” he said. “I just don’t see it happening. I will say highly unlikely.”
West-Coast Reunion? Only Time Will Tell
The Clippers come next. Paul helped make the team a contender throughout his six seasons with them during the “Lob City” era. On paper, a return sounds fantastic, but things have become a little crowded in Los Angeles.
“They not doing nothing but getting older.”@KendrickPerkins feels the addition of Bradley Beal will do nothing for the Clippers 👀 pic.twitter.com/P9ZSUEaTyr
— First Take (@FirstTake) July 17, 2025
Following his buyout from the Suns, Bradley Beal signed a two-year contract with the Clippers, which begs the question of where Paul would fit into their rotation and whether the front office sees a place for him.
Paul might be waiting for the ideal opportunity to present itself, or perhaps he is holding out for a better cash offer.
Wherever he ends up, one thing’s for sure: Paul will choose the right place for himself, both on and off the court. And with teams filling up, that decision might be coming any day now.