Insider clears the air on James Harden's beef with Chris Paul

Both Harden and Paul are still striving to win their first NBA championship, and they can't let their relationship get in the way of the ultimate goal.

Even so, Paul isn't expected to have a prominent role in his return to California. Per Windhorst, he might not even play some nights.

"There are going to be nights where James Harden and their backup Kris Dunn will get the minutes at point guard, and Chris Paul might not play at all, which is something you've never seen from him before. He has understood that," Windhorst reported.

Paul is one of the greatest playmakers the game has ever seen, but he's 40 years old and has a long history of injuries, especially late in seasons.

And with Harden embracing a point guard role and taking ownership of Tyronn Lue's system, he should continue to operate as their primary ball-handler.

The Clippers also toughened up their frontcourt with the additions of Brook Lopez and John Collins, all while Bradley Beal picks up the scoring slack from Norm Powell.

They will be the oldest team in the NBA next season, but they might also finally have all the pieces they need to get over the hump.