Must-see matchups for what could be Chris Paul's final season

Paul played for the franchise from 2011 to 2017. During that time, he helped usher the Clippers into an era of prominence, headlined by fast-paced play and alley-oops. The era, now known as Lob City, is an integral part of Clippers history.

Prior to Paul's arrival in 2011, the Clippers had not made the playoffs in six years. During his tenure, they reached the postseason every year. Despite initial success, though, the Clippers weren't able to make a deep playoff run, never making it past the second round.

Now, fittingly, this will likely be where Paul closes out his career, getting one more shot to help the Clippers get over the hump and play for an NBA championship.

Paul's career has had a profound impact on multiple franchises and the NBA as a whole. As he begins what appears to be his farewell tour, several stops will be must-see moments:

New Orleans Pelicans

Paul rose to stardom with the then-New Orleans Hornets. In his six seasons, he was named an All-Star four times and made an All-NBA team three times. He led the league in assists and steals twice and helped New Orleans tally a franchise-record 56 wins in the 2007-2008 season. 

Paul is a key figure in the Hornets' history, and his return to New Orleans should highlight this.

Los Angeles Lakers

Paul's final matchups with the Lakers will carry added intrigue given his complicated history with the franchise. 

In 2011, Paul was set to join the Purple and Gold before then-NBA Commissioner David Stern famously vetoed the trade. This move set in motion the Hornets' decision to deal Paul to the Clippers instead. 

Paul went on to become a thorn in the Lakers' side for years as the Clippers reached new heights of success while the Purple and Gold entered an era of disappointing play. Seeing Paul suit up in a Clippers uniform for the last time will be the final reminder of what could have been for the Lakers. 

These final meetings will also feature Paul's longtime friend, LeBron James. Paul has a well-publicized friendship with James that also includes Carmelo Anthony and Dwyane Wade, nicknamed the Banana Boat Crew. With James' retirement on the horizon, this season may be one of the last times to see these two legends share the court.

Houston Rockets

Paul's return to Houston will be another notable stop. His time with the Rockets will be best remembered by their infamous Game 7 loss to the Golden State Warriors in the 2018 playoffs. 

Paul's absence due to a hamstring injury remains one of the biggest what-if stories in NBA history. This playoff disappointment led to Paul's trade from Houston and set in motion James Harden's exit as well. 

Now, with both players reunited, Paul's return to Toyota Center will offer a full-circle moment.

Phoenix Suns

Paul reached his first NBA Finals while with Phoenix, leading the Suns to the 2021 title against the Milwaukee Bucks. Though they fell short, that season marked a major milestone in Paul's career. 

His final matchup against the Suns, specifically his former backcourt mate Devin Booker, will be a meaningful chapter in his farewell tour.