The Los Angeles Clippers have added more depth to their roster by signing Chris Paul in free agency. In a sentimental reunion that sees Paul return to Los Angeles, the 40-year-old joins a title-contending roster, though his role may be restricted. ESPN’s Brian Windhorst recently shared that this move may not necessarily result in significant minutes for the veteran guard. He said:
“From what I understand, he’s [Paul] not gonna have guaranteed playing time. There are going to be nights where James Harden and their backup Kris Dunn get the minutes at point guard and Chris Paul might not play at all, which is something we’ve never seen from him before.”
Paul has been the primary point guard on virtually every team he has played for. As the facilitator and floor general, the guard made a name for himself for his ability to orchestrate the team’s offense.
Even last season with the San Antonio Spurs, his 20th campaign in the league, Paul played all 82 games while recording valuable playing time as a starter. While the 40-year-old was hoping for a similar situation on his new team, this may not be the case.
Windhorst continued, “He has understood that. He understands that he is going to be in that spot that he hasn’t. He wants to be on a competitive team in the market. He wants to play near his family.”
The Clippers have made some impressive moves this offseason, with signings like Brook Lopez and Bradley Beal, along with the trade acquisition of John Collins. Given the depth of the roster, particularly in the backcourt, Paul is expected to play second fiddle to James Harden, his former teammate from the Houston Rockets.
The ESPN reporter shared more on this matter and said, “He and James Harden didn’t have the greatest relationship when they were in Houston a few years ago. But Harden is on board with this signing. They went to him with it first.”
“He understands that he played the fifth-most minutes in the league last year,” Windhorst continued, “And anything the Clippers can do to support and protect him is welcome, and that’s what this move is.”
With a capable veteran joining the team, L.A. features a lot of depth in the point guard position. This gives them added flexibility with managing the minutes of their starters, while preserving them for the playoffs.
With 28.0 minutes averaged last season, Paul displayed his ability to be productive by averaging 8.8 points and 7.4 assists per game. While it is unlikely that he will receive much playing time, the elite quality of teammates surrounding him will certainly help him be an effective contributor.
The Clippers, as constructed, are one of the most formidable teams in the Western Conference. With significant depth across every position, the Clippers look like legitimate contenders, as long as injuries don’t limit their productivity in the regular season.
