Chris Paul, recently part of a three-team trade involving the Toronto Raptors, Los Angeles Clippers, and Brooklyn Nets, is expected to be waived by the Raptors shortly. As Paul reaches this late phase of his NBA journey, teams weighing his potential contributions focus on fit rather than playing time, given his playmaking skills, leadership, and vast experience.
Following his brief and unremarkable return to the Clippers this offseason, which ended with his release in December, Paul had also announced that this season would be his last. Despite this, several teams remain interested in the veteran guard’s ability to influence the court and mentor younger players. Below are three franchises that stand out as prime candidates to acquire Paul once he is waived by Toronto.
Returning to Familiar Grounds: A New Role with the New Orleans Pelicans
A move to the New Orleans Pelicans would represent a poignant homecoming for Chris Paul, whose career began there after being selected fourth overall in the 2005 NBA Draft. While this choice carries sentimental weight, it also offers strategic benefits. The Pelicans have a young core that could greatly benefit from Paul’s guidance and mastery of the pick-and-roll, particularly Derik Queen.
At age 40, Paul would likely embrace a reduced role focused on spot minutes off the bench, similar to what he anticipated when signing with the Clippers. His wealth of experience would be invaluable to developing talents like Jordan Poole, Jeremiah Fears, Jose Alvarado, and Jordan Hawkins. Paul’s return would enhance both the leadership and on-court execution of a franchise aiming to accelerate its growth.
A Championship Pursuit with the Denver Nuggets
Among NBA stars without a championship ring, Chris Paul’s opportunity to chase one might lie with the Denver Nuggets. While the Oklahoma City Thunder could be a natural destination, their preference against incorporating an aging player bolsters Denver’s appeal. The Nuggets, led by Nikola Jokic, could integrate Paul’s elite passing, midrange shooting, and playoff experience to bolster their offense.
Paul’s presence would complement Jokic’s versatility and facilitate Jamal Murray’s role in a more structured system. The concept of a three-man lineup featuring Jokic, Murray, and Paul has the potential to confound opposing defenses. Additionally, Paul could lead the Nuggets’ second unit effectively, although fit within a rotation developing young players like Jalen Pickett and Julian Strawther would require meticulous management.
Acquiring a 12-time NBA All-Star and 11-time All-NBA Team member could elevate Denver’s playoff aspirations, adding a layer of resilience and court-savvy to their championship pursuit.
Contributing to a Win-Now Agenda with the Los Angeles Lakers
The Los Angeles Lakers, known for their championship ambitions, present another promising destination for Chris Paul. Despite playing limited minutes behind guards such as Luka Doncic, Austin Reaves, and Marcus Smart, Paul’s ability to manage game tempo, make quick decisions, and create scoring opportunities would be a valuable asset for the Lakers’ playoff run.
His recent time with the San Antonio Spurs proved that he can be effective without controlling the ball extensively, a dynamic that aligns well with sharing court time alongside Doncic, LeBron James, and Reaves. Paul’s established relationships with LeBron James and coach JJ Redick—who praised Paul’s basketball intelligence during their shared Clippers years—would help foster team chemistry. Additionally, his history as a teammate of Deandre Ayton adds further familiarity within the Lakers’ roster.
Incorporating Paul as a seasoned floor general could enhance the Lakers’ backcourt depth and strategic versatility crucial for a strong postseason push.
Chris Paul’s next steps following his release from the Toronto Raptors will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. Whether returning to familiar territory in New Orleans, joining a strong contender in Denver, or supporting a storied franchise like the Lakers, Paul’s experience and skill set can significantly impact any team aiming to maximize its potential in the final stretch of the season.
