Chris Paul linked to 2 notable Western Conference teams

Oct 7, 2023; San Francisco, California, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Chris Paul (3) reacts after a foul is called in favor of the Los Angeles Lakers during the first half at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-USA TODAY Sports

The Golden State Warriors have a big decision to make with Chris Paul this offseason, and at least two notable Western Conference teams could have interest in the veteran point guard if he becomes available.

Paul has a $30 million salary for the 2024-25 season that will become fully guaranteed on June 28. There is a chance he and the Warriors could delay that date in an attempt to facilitate a trade, but it seems unlikely that Golden State will want to pay the 39-year-old Paul that much.

According to NBA reporter Marc Stein, two teams continue to come up as “potential suitors” for Paul if he leaves the Warriors. Those teams are the Los Angeles Lakers and San Antonio Spurs.

Paul and LeBron James are close friends. There has been talk for years that they want to play together before their respective careers end, and this is probably their final chance to make that happen. The Lakers could also use a veteran point guard.

San Antonio might be an even more intriguing landing spot for Paul. Though the Spurs went 22-60 this season, they have an emerging star in Victor Wembanyama who has the potential to become the face of the NBA. Paul might be an appealing veteran piece to add if San Antonio’s options are limited.

Paul played in 58 games (18 starts) with the Warriors this season and averaged 9.2 points, 6.8 assists and 1.2 steals in 26.4 minutes per contest. He is nowhere near the star player he used to be, but he could still provide value in the right situation.