Warriors News: Mike Dunleavy Teases Critical $30 Million Decision on Chris Paul’s Future, Keeps Clippers Waiting for 7-Year Reunion

The Golden State Warriors have set the clock, ticking for Chris Paul. The veteran point guard entered the Bay Area on a 2-year contract worth $60 million. Importantly, the 39-year-old came off the bench last season for the first time in his career and had a huge impact from the second unit. Nevertheless, before heading into the 2nd-year, the Dubs have a choice to make. The decision will determine whether he will make a return to the LA Clippers after seven years.

The Dubs have nothing much to lose in this scenario. Heading into the 2024-25 season, CP3 still has a year left in the contract which will pay him $30 million. But there is a twist. Since it’s non-guaranteed, the Dubs can terminate the contract without buying out the vet. And, the team has to decide before June 29, which is only 24 hours away.

Addressing the situation, a reporter asked Mike Dunleavy Jr., the Dubs GM, “Less than 24 hours away, where are you at it now?” Dunleavy, on the other hand, casually said, “We’ve got another 24 hours,” leaving Chris Paul’s future hanging by a thin thread. Moreover, he also added that “it’s possible” to retain him for the next season, again leaving the Clippers reunion in a thin thread.

One of the interesting trade rumors in the off-season involved Chris Paul’s return to the Clippers. The LA side already has a star-studded backcourt consisting of Russell Westbrook and James Harden. Their latest rumors also stated that the Clippers are interested in roping in Kyle Lowry into their roster. However, Marc Stein believes that Lowry will re-sign in Philly. So, CP3 is the only option left. Pairing CP3 with Harden again can be a massive boost for the side after a disappointing first-round exit in the 2024 postseason.

Chris Paul’s title-less yet memorable career in LA

The 12x NBA All-Star is one of the most talented point guards in the business. In his 19-season-long career, Paul has played for 6 franchises but his 6-season stint with the Clippers always stood out, averaging 18.8 points and 9.8 assists per game. He was accompanied by Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan, making a notable Big 3. Even though the trio couldn’t win a ring together, they made a huge dent in the West.

They also paired up with the legendary Doc Rivers during their run. Apart from games on the court, they also faced plenty of troubles as a team off the court. After the controversial audio leak of the Clippers’ former owner, Donald Sterling, in 2014, the entire team came under scrutiny. Nevertheless, the team performed under pressure and made it to the Conference semi-finals.

Ironically, the team defeated the Dubs in Game 7 of the first-round and Chris Paul had a heated altercation with Draymond Green in the hallway. And 10 years down the lane, the duo joined hands and played for the same team. If the Clippers rope in CP3 again, the veteran PG can go back and complete his unfinished business, and win a chip for himself and the franchise.

Before you go, do not forget to check out Shaquille O’Neal’s ex-agent, Leonard Armato, to open up about the infamous Shaq-Kobe feud. Keep checking this space for more such updates.