Chris Paul Expected To Leave The Spurs; Mavericks Reportedly Interested

Yahoo

04-06-2025

Chris Paul just wrapped up his 20th season in the NBA, and while he is no longer in his prime, he remains a solid player. Paul had a productive campaign with the San Antonio Spurs in 2024-25, but he isn't expected to wear their colors in 2025-26. NBA insider Marc Stein reports the 40-year-old is likely to be on his way out this offseason.
"Anticipation is building that Chris Paul could be on the move again this offseason even though his time as a Spur as a mentor to Victor Wembanyama and a young team overall was an unabashed success," Stein wrote. "The reality now, though, is that San Antonio acquired De'Aaron Fox in February and just watched Stephon Castle assemble of a Rookie of the Year season.
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"Since winning the May 12 draft lottery, San Antonio has likewise attempted to convey a desire to rival teams that it intends to keep the No. 2 overall pick in next month's draft to select Rutgers' Dylan Harper," Stein added. "With or without Harper in the Alamo City next season, it is difficult to see how there would be room in the Spurs' backcourt next season.
If the Spurs do end up selecting Dylan Harper, then it would make little sense for Paul to stay, given how crowded the backcourt would be. The 12-time All-Star isn't interested in being a mentor full-time just yet and wants to play.
Paul averaged 8.8 points, 3.6 rebounds, 7.4 assists, 1.3 steals, and 0.3 blocks per game for the Spurs in 2024-25 after signing a one-year, 10.5 million deal in 2024. He made history by becoming the first player to play all 82 games in a 20th season or later.
We rightfully celebrate LeBron James for his incredible longevity, but Paul deserves his flowers as well. For a small guard like him to play this long is remarkable.
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As for where Paul could end up if he leaves the Spurs, Stein reports that the Dallas Mavericks could be a team to keep an eye on.
'Another name to monitor for Dallas: Chris Paul," Stein stated. "The free agent-to-be just turned 40 on May 6, but Paul also just played (and started) 82 games in his maiden season as a San Antonio Spur.'
With Kyrie Irving currently sidelined after tearing his ACL in March, the Mavericks do need a point guard. Paul could fill in as the starter and then transition to a backup role when Irving reportedly returns in January 2026.
Paul is sure to have other options, too, though. The Spurs loved having him around, and there would be quite a few teams interested in his services. You'd hope Paul goes to a contender, as a title is really the only thing missing from his resume.
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Paul has made 12 All-Star, 11 All-NBA, and nine All-Defensive teams in his career. He has led the league in assists six times and steals five times. Paul came close to winning that elusive title in 2021, but his Phoenix Suns lost in six games to the Milwaukee Bucks in the NBA Finals.
Related: Chris Paul Reveals His NBA Retirement Plans Ahead Of His 40th Birthday