Chris Paul Joins Clippers For Final NBA Season Amid Age Concerns

INGLEWOOD, Calif. — Chris Paul is back with the Los Angeles Clippers for what could be his final NBA season, aiming to win one last championship. At age 40, he returns to a team that has made significant offseason moves to bolster its roster.

This summer, the Clippers added stars like Bradley Beal and John Collins around their core of Kawhi Leonard and James Harden. As the team heads into training camp, the focus is on how these veterans will mesh on the court.

Paul, who signed a one-year veteran’s minimum contract, averaged 8.8 points, 7.4 assists, and 3.6 rebounds for the San Antonio Spurs last season. Despite being a secondary player, his experience could lend stability to the Clippers’ rotation.

“The coolest part about our team is the experience we have,” Paul said. “We have many ways to play. It’s about executing and doing it together.”

Concerns about age linger with the Clippers being the second-oldest team in the league. The team has struggled with injuries in the past, and this experience holds both promise and pitfalls. Paul’s career statistics show a notable assist-to-turnover ratio of 4:1, reflecting his exceptional playmaking abilities.

James Harden, signed to a two-year deal worth $81.5 million, remains the team’s leader and main ballhandler. Last season, he showcased his capabilities, averaging 22.8 points and 8.7 assists per game before the playoffs brought new challenges. Harden’s role is crucial as the team aims for consistency amidst the concerns of age and health.

With dynamic playmakers like Paul and Harden in tow, the Clippers aim to secure a playoff berth. While the regular season poses its challenges, they hope to build a solid foundation that will carry them into the postseason.

“We’ve got to stay healthy,” Paul added. “If we can do that, we can surprise some people.”