Clippers, Spurs and Suns consider contract if Warriors PG becomes free agent

Several teams are interested in Golden State Warriors point guard Chris Paul when he enters free agency on Sunday.

According to NBA insider Marc Stein, Paul would be “interesting” to the Los Angeles Clippers if he becomes an unrestricted free agent, as Russell Westbrook’s future remains “uncertain” despite him picking up a $4 million option to return to the team on Saturday. The San Antonio Spurs also “probably” have interest in Paul.

ESPN’s Kendra Andrews reported Friday that it was “possible” that the Warriors would waive the veteran, although the team would also “continue to explore trades” with him.

According to Tim Kawakami of The Athletic, Paul’s name was mentioned during trade talks between the Clippers and the Warriors regarding Paul George. Although the deal never materialized, Los Angeles could still try to sign Paul as a reserve point guard if the team wants to part ways with Westbrook.

The 39-year-old already has a shared history with the Clippers: He spent six years with them from 2011 to 2017 and ranks first on the organization’s all-time assists list.

Los Angeles isn’t Paul’s only former team interested in a reunion. Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports reported Sunday that the Phoenix Suns have also been linked to him if he becomes a free agent.

Paul was primarily a reserve player for the first time in his career with the Warriors, averaging 9.2 points and 6.8 assists on shooting percentages of 44.1/37.1/82.7 in 26.4 minutes each night. He only made 58 appearances due to a fracture of his left hand.

If the 12-time All-Star is looking for a bigger role, the Spurs are also a tempting option. San Antonio’s starting point guard position changed several times last season as head coach Gregg Popovich looked for an ideal partner for standout rookie Victor Wembanyama.

While Paul’s schedule doesn’t quite match that of the 20-year-old, his ability to consistently throw accurate lob passes would be an asset to the 7-foot-1 center as he enters his second season in the Association.

Although his All-Star days may be behind him, several teams are expected to be interested in Paul when he becomes a free agent on Sunday.