Top 5 Landing Spots for Chris Paul After Clippers Release PG

The LA Clippers shocked the NBA world after releasing franchise legend Chris Paul on Tuesday night. The team didn't inform its decision to the veteran guard, who found out about the move at the same time as everyone else. He took to Instagram to express his shock, saying he "just" learned about getting "sent home."

The potential Hall of Famer didn't have the best results in a Clippers uniform in his second stint. In 15 games, Paul played 14.2 minutes per contest, averaging 2.6 points and 3.3 assists on 30.6% shooting, including 29.6% from 3.

While it didn't work out for him with his former team, Paul might be a decent addition to rosters that need veteran locker room presence and some point guard depth. Some teams could make sense for his potential desire to remain close to his home in LA.

Top 5 Landing Spots for Chris Paul After Clippers Release Franchise Legend

#5 LA Lakers

The Lakers have an open roster spot available. They have guard depth and arguably the best playmaking talent with Luka Doncic, LeBron James and Austin Reaves. However, the Lakers could use some veteran presence in the locker room.

They offered a similar role to Markieff Morris last year. It's key to have such players who can hold the stars accountable. With LA arguably having the most star-studded duo, Paul can fill that role as well as anybody else. He also has close relationships with JJ Redick and LeBron James.

#4 Phoenix Suns

The Suns also have an open roster spot. They currently don't have a natural point guard. Chris Paul made his first finals appearance with that team in 2021 and has an excellent rapport with franchise star Devin Booker, who could use some help leading a young roster. Paul will also fill a position need as a backup point guard.

#3 Denver Nuggets

The Nuggets could use some depth at point guard. Their three options currently are Jamal Murray, Bruce Brown and Jalen Pickett. Brown is a versatile player who fills multiple roles, while Pickett isn't someone Denver leans on as much.

Chris Paul would be a viable go-to option whenever the Nuggets are shorthanded in the backcourt due to injuries.

#2 Minnesota Timberwolves

The Timberwolves are in desperate need of a point guard. They have been rumored as a potential landing spot for James Harden and Ja Morant. However, there's uncertainty on those trade moves. The Timberwolves don't have draft capital to trade, and moving other pieces could leave the team shorthanded elsewhere.

Chris Paul can be a decent stopgap addition for this season. Minnesota can have the most experienced backcourt, with Mike Conley already playing as a backup.

#1 Houston Rockets

A return to the Rockets makes sense for Chris Paul. Houston has survived playing the inexperienced Reed Sheppard at the position and Aaron Holiday outperforming his contract. They seemingly don't need to make a splash to fill that position. Paul can be a suitable buy-low target for the rest of the season.