By Sunday 
It’s that time of year again in Laker Land—speculation season. And this one’s spicy: Chris Paul might finally land in purple and gold. Yes, the same Chris Paul who was nearly a Laker years ago before then-commissioner David Stern nixed the trade. This time, though, it’s not about league politics. It’s personal.
“I Want to Hoop, But I Want to Be Dad”
Paul, now 39, spent the 2024–25 season with the San Antonio Spurs, but he’s made it clear that proximity to family is weighing heavily on his next move.
“My son just turned 16,” he said on The Pat McAfee Show. “My daughter is 12. The past six seasons, I’ve lived without them… I’ve been around a few teams, but I’ve been away from them the last six years. It’s a little different. That’s the conversation.”
It’s no secret Paul’s family lives in Los Angeles, and while he’s still got gas in the tank, the pull of home—and fatherhood—might finally tip the scales. “I want to hoop because I love to hoop. But, at the same time, I want to be dad.”
Friends, Teammates, Finally?
Then there’s The LeBron Factor. LeBron James and Chris Paul are more than just contemporaries—they’re long-time friends, banana boat buddies, and two of the most respected veterans in the league.
They’ve always talked about teaming up. It never materialized. But with both men now nearing the end of their careers—James has 22 seasons under his belt, Paul 20—this could be the last realistic shot to make it happen.
And while Paul is no longer a 20-and-10 machine, he still averaged 7.4 assists per game last season, ranking seventh in the league. More impressively? He played all 82 games—just the second time he’s ever done that.
Role Player Reality?
If Paul does join the Lakers, he’ll likely need to embrace a bench role—something he reluctantly accepted in Golden State. But this time, as a free agent, the decision is his. It’ll come down to priorities: Does he want to start somewhere else? Or end his career close to home, maybe even chasing one last ring alongside his best friend?
Money likely isn’t the main concern. Paul could sign on a veteran minimum if that’s what it takes to stay close to his family and chase a championship. The bigger question is how willing he is to adjust to a new role.
A JJ Redick Reunion?
Adding one more layer to the reunion potential: JJ Redick.
The new Lakers head coach played four seasons with Paul during their time with the Clippers. The two share a solid rapport, and Paul knows Redick’s offensive vision better than most. His veteran savvy and IQ could be just what Redick needs to implement a new system.
So while Paul might not light up the scoreboard anymore, his leadership, passing, and experience could be invaluable for a young-ish Lakers roster in need of stability off the bench.
The Final Chapter?
So here we are again: Chris Paul to the Lakers. The difference now? He’s older, wiser, and—more than ever—focused on his family. If Los Angeles offers a shot at a meaningful final chapter both on and off the court, it might finally be the right time, the right team, and the right city.
Will we finally get LeBron and CP3 on the same squad? Stay tuned, Laker fans. Things are heating up.