Highlights
Ahead of the 2025-26 NBA season, Chris Paul made his return to the Los Angeles Clippers. Most people expect Paul to conclude his final year in the NBA with the team he is most closely associated with.
As one of the team's most iconic players, Paul is revered within the Clippers community. When people look into his legacy, most will remember his time with the Clippers, where he was the figurehead of the Lob City era alongside Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan.
The 2025-26 season will be significant for the Clippers. They have undergone numerous changes in the offseason as they aim to build on their impressive 2024-25 campaign.
With Paul on the roster, the Clippers have another leader they can rely on. They already have established stars such as James Harden and Kawhi Leonard, but getting one of the best floor generals of all time could help, even if he is in his twilight years.
As one of the most experienced players in the league, second only to LeBron James, CP3 has played with countless teammates. However, his Clippers stint always sticks with him, considering he was the linchpin for a strong team.
He is also one of the most respected basketball minds, so his teammates always find ways to speak with him. While he is unpopular to some players who haven't played with him, he does command respect from all teammates he has had.
One of the teammates who stands out is Blake Griffin, the main scorer during the Lob City era. It was Paul serving as the primary playmaker, while Griffin was the finisher from his passes. Sometimes, DeAndre Jordan also benefited from those unstoppable pick-and-rolls.
Now that he is back with the Clippers, Paul spoke about how he always speaks to his former teammates when he has the time.
"Man, it’s dope. It’s really dope. I’m sure BG, well, I hope BG gets out to a game or something this year. DJ, we still talk all the time. Even though JJ coaches the Lakers, I still talk to him all the time," Paul said about his former teammates.
Chris Paul on receiving a message from Blake Griffin after joining the Clippers:
— Joey Linn (@joeylinn_) October 5, 2025
“Man it’s dope. It’s really dope. I’m sure BG — well I hope BG get out to a game or something this year. DJ, we still talk all the time. Even tho JJ coach the Lakers I still talk to him all the… pic.twitter.com/b30997KviV
"A lot of guys. Matt Barnes, Jamal Crawford, and all of us are still well-connected. So it’s really dope to still have that bond with them guys."
While Harden will be the starting point guard for the Clippers, Paul could figure into head coach Ty Lue's game plan. He might be in his 40s now, but he still has his basketball IQ to rely on.
With Ivica Zubac emerging as one of the league's best centers, he could serve as the pick-and-roll partner for both Harden and Paul. Even new acquisition John Collins could thrive alongside the Clippers' guards because he is an athletic finisher who could thrive in the pick-and-roll.
Ty lue x lou will from intuit
— Jamal Cristopher (@JamCristopher) October 6, 2025
On Chris Paul, Bradley Beal, and what the clips are going for this season. Weird seeing lou will interview ty lol. Excited. pic.twitter.com/B7yCKMogYG
The Clippers have a deep guard rotation, as they also have Kris Dunn and Bradley Beal in the lineup. With that depth, the Clippers could compete with almost every other team in the Western Conference.
It will be a challenging campaign, but the Clippers are a dark horse in the West. They have the talent, the pedigree, and the leadership to guide them to a good season. Paul might play a smaller role than ever, but he is still an influential figure.
More must-reads:
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!