Chris Paul Returns Clippers with Reduced Playing Time Expected

Chris Paul has signed a one-year deal to return to the Los Angeles Clippers for his 21st NBA season, embracing a significantly reduced and non-guaranteed role that may see him on the bench or even out of the lineup on some nights. Unlike his previous tenure as the primary point guard, Paul will be playing behind James Harden and Kris Dunn, accepting a mentor role and contributing to a deeper Clippers roster that includes new additions like Brook Lopez and Bradley Beal. ESPN's Brian Windhorst highlighted that despite past tensions with Harden, both players support this arrangement as Paul prioritizes being on a competitive team near his family. Clippers' president Lawrence Frank praised Paul's impact and readiness to serve as a reserve point guard, emphasizing his exceptional skills in ballhandling, playmaking, and shooting. At 40 years old, Paul is expected to chase his first NBA title while adapting to this new phase of his career, marking a departure from his historically guaranteed playing time and starter status. This move reflects both Paul's acceptance of aging and a strategic effort by the Clippers to bolster their championship aspirations.