NBA Rumors: Chris Paul turns down Eastern Conference offer, favors Clippers or Suns return

Chris Paul is at a pivotal point in his NBA career, facing a decision that could determine where he finishes his professional playing days. While rumors suggest he’s leaning toward the Los Angeles Clippers or Phoenix Suns, he has reportedly declined an offer from an Eastern Conference franchise.

“Paul has already rebuffed an approach from his home-state Charlotte Hornets earlier in free agency,” NBA insider Marc Stein recently reported. “And likewise has interest from Milwaukee but has shown little inclination to this point to consider overtures from Eastern Conference teams.”

According to reports, Paul’s stance is driven less by basketball preferences and more by lifestyle considerations. After spending a season in Texas, his priority now appears to be staying close to his family in California.

The Hornets are coming off a forgettable 2024–25 season, finishing second to last in the Eastern Conference standings—just ahead of the Washington Wizards—with a 19–63 record. While it makes sense for Charlotte to pursue a seasoned veteran to strengthen their roster, it’s also understandable why Paul would view them as an unappealing option.

The Charlotte Hornets had a bad season last year.

“League sources say that both the Suns and the Clippers continue to weigh the prospect of reuniting with Chris Paul. Yet it remains unclear what happens if a deal with neither of those previous employers materializes for the 40-year-old,” Stein added.

see also

NBA Rumors: Chris Paul has an important warning for any team interested in him

Proximity to home is clearly a major factor in Paul’s decision-making. But so is the opportunity to play a significant on-court role—something he has enjoyed for nearly his entire career, with the exception of his stint with the Golden State Warriors.

Paul played all 82 games for the San Antonio Spurs during the 2024–25 regular season, a remarkable feat at age 40. His durability and leadership make him a valuable asset to many NBA teams, though not all can offer him a starting role.

In fact, should he land with the Clippers, he would face stiff competition for minutes, especially with James Harden having played a key role in that position over the past season. While the two previously shared the court during their time with the Houston Rockets, it remains to be seen how that pairing might work several years later.