Chris Paul Reflects on Vetoed 2011 Lakers Trade and Kobe Bryant Connection

Chris Paul, now in his 21st NBA season with the Los Angeles Clippers, reflects on a pivotal moment in his career when a trade to the Los Angeles Lakers in 2011 was vetoed by then-NBA commissioner David Stern. This trade would have paired him with Kobe Bryant, potentially creating a dominant Lakers backcourt and extending their championship dynasty, a scenario both Paul and Bryant vividly discussed and still remember. Paul, a 12-time All-Star and one of the all-time leaders in assists, sees this blocked trade as one of the wildest and most memorable moments of his career. Despite not winning an NBA championship, Paul's legacy as a premier point guard remains strong, highlighted by his leadership during the Clippers' "Lob City" era. The late Kobe Bryant's passing continues to affect Paul deeply, who often thinks of Kobe as if he were still alive. This story underscores the "what-ifs" that can shape an athlete's career and legacy in professional sports.