Chris Paul, a 12-time NBA All-Star and one of the best point guards in league history, has reportedly signed a one-year deal with the San Antonio Spurs after being waived by the Golden State Warriors. The news was first reported by ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski on July 1, 2024.
Paul, who turns 40 later this year, spent last season with the Warriors and averaged 9.2 points and 6.8 assists in his limited playing time. He was acquired via trade from the Phoenix Suns in March after missing significant time due to injury.
The Spurs were reportedly seeking a veteran point guard to pair with their young star, Victor Wembanyama, who averaged 21.4 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game as a rookie in the 2023-24 season.
Paul's addition to the Spurs marks a significant move for both parties. The Spurs get a proven floor general who can mentor their young stars, while Paul gets an opportunity to compete for an NBA championship with a talented team.
The signing also comes after the Warriors failed to make it to the playoffs in the 2023-24 season, marking their third consecutive year out of the postseason. The team is expected to pursue other free agent signings and trades as they look to rebuild around Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson.
Despite his age, Paul remains a formidable force on the court. He ranks third all-time in assists with 11,894 and has never won an NBA championship. His closest brush with a title came in 2021 when he led the Phoenix Suns to the NBA Finals against the Milwaukee Bucks.
The Spurs are coming off a disappointing season where they finished below .500 for the third consecutive year. They drafted Connecticut guard Stephon Castle with the fourth overall pick in this year's NBA Draft and have acquired future draft picks as part of their rebuilding efforts.
