The NBA free agency has been active for several days, but Chris Paul’s destination remains uncertain.
The veteran point guard recently dropped some important tips on his future plans in a recent interview.
The 40-year-old has revealed that he is likely to be his last in the NBA in 20 years in the league.
Chris Paul maintains his ambition to play and even starts with point guard.
Paul continues to produce solid numbers despite his age. Last season with the San Antonio Spurs, he averaged 8.8 points, 7.4 assists and 1.3 steals per game, while appearing in all 82 games.
However, defensive restrictions have plagued one of the oldest free agents available this summer. Paul no longer owns the defensive capabilities he displayed 10 or 15 years ago, and heavily limits his market value.
He signed a veteran minimum and was able to become an affordable option, but the market for his services may be smaller than in the previous year.
There are three teams that can provide the perfect final chapter for the 12 All-Stars.
The Bucks desperately need a legitimate point guard after abandoning Damien Lillard. The pole represents an ideal fit and there is a real opportunity to get started with the Milwaukee system.
His decision-making eases pressure on Giannis Antetokounmpo and gives Milwaukee a secondary creator and reliable late game option. Paul is still above the league average in pick-and-roll efficiency as a ball handler.
His presence could particularly benefit the Bucks’ new addition, Miles Turner, who thrived alongside Indiana point guard Tyrees Halliburton.
Paul’s ability to play 82 games proven last season adds stability to Milwaukee’s injury-prone roster.
Chris Paul created lasting memories during his tenure at Phoenix, averaging a career-high 10.8 assists per game.
The Suns almost won a championship in 2021, dropping slightly against Milwaukee in the NBA Finals. The partnership between Paul and Devin Booker and DeAndre Ayton has brought Phoenix to championship competition.
He may not be the same player, but Paul’s basketball IQ and playmaking ability still benefit the Sun.
He reduced Booker’s ball handling workload and was able to offer a better partnership compared to Grayson Allen.
Paul also adds significant experiences following the deal for Phoenix Kevin Durant and the addition of young talent like Jalen Green.
The Clippers offer Paul the smallest chance to get started regularly, with James Harden securing the main point guard role.
Harden can play shooting guard, but it’s unlikely to drive away Norman Powell, who averaged 21.8 points while shooting 3-41.8%.
However, the Clippers’ injury history suggests that Paul will receive considerable playtime. Last season’s backup guard Chris Dunn averaged 24.1 minutes per game while opening 58 contests.
Paul gives the Clippers a reliable ball handler who can create plays. Adding another playmaker along with Harden makes the attack more dangerous and unpredictable.
Paul’s ball security improvements will benefit the Clippers, ranked 23rd in sales, at just 1.6 revs, averaging 1.6 revs per game last season, and averaged 1.6 revs per game. His veteran presence may be a missing piece for their championship aspirations.
For Paul, one of these three destinations offers a conclusion worthy of his legendary career and a realistic championship opportunity that may be his last NBA season.