Lakers could get Chris Paul under one condition

The Los Angeles Clippers abruptly ended Chris Paul's farewell tour.

One of the greatest point guards of all time won't get to ride into the sunset on his own terms, and while he hasn't technically been waived or released yet, the team has made it loud and clear that it won't have him around anymore.

Paul's age and dip in production might make it tough for him to find another team at this point in the season. Nevertheless, the Los Angeles Lakers could still be a lifeline for him. However, they will have to wait a little longer.

Lakers need to wait to sign Chris Paul

According to ESPN's Bobby Marks, the Lakers could sign Paul if he's waived, but they will have to wait until next year. 

"The Los Angeles Lakers have an open roster spot and could be an option next month, but they are not allowed to sign a 15th player until Jan. 19," Marks reported.

LeBron James is one of Paul's closest friends. They almost teamed up in Miami, and the Lakers were also pretty close to landing Paul before then-commissioner David Stern infamously vetoed the move.

Paul's family lives in Los Angeles, and with him inching closer to retirement, staying close to his family might be at the top of his priority list. The Lakers are legitimate championship contenders, and it would only be right to watch one of the best playmakers of all time retire with a ring. Also, while he's not the player he used to be, the Lakers aren't getting much production from backup point guard Gabe Vincent and some other rotation players.