Chris Paul is officially back with the LA Clippers, marking the start of what is anticipated to be the point guard’s 21st and final NBA season. The team confirmed the signing on Monday afternoon. Paul previously led the Clippers to the playoffs during his six seasons with them.

“Chris is one of the most impactful players ever to wear a Clippers uniform, and it’s appropriate that he returns to the team for this chapter of his career,” said Lawrence Frank, president of basketball operations.

Paul, a 12-time All-Star, became a free agent after playing all 82 games for the San Antonio Spurs last season, becoming the first NBA player to achieve this feat in the 20th season or later. He posted averages of 8.8 points and 7.4 assists, while maintaining a shooting percentage of 43% from the floor.

The point guard expressed a desire to play closer to his family in Los Angeles this season. He will be joining a veteran squad that features new arrivals such as guard Bradley Beal, forward John Collins, and center Brook Lopez, alongside existing stars like Kawhi Leonard, James Harden, and Bogdan Bogdanović.

“Chris will help fortify our backcourt with his exceptional ballhandling, playmaking, and shooting,” stated Frank.

During his six seasons with the Clippers, Paul was instrumental in what was known as the “Lob City” era alongside Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan, earning five All-Star selections from 2012 to 2017. His 4,023 assists remain the highest in franchise history, along with an impressive average of 18.8 points, 9.8 assists, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.2 steals over 409 games.

Paul had left the Clippers for the Houston Rockets in 2017, seeking a change and the opportunity to compete for a championship with Harden. He later played for the Oklahoma City Thunder, the Phoenix Suns, and the Golden State Warriors, prior to joining the Spurs last season.

The Clippers finished last season strong, securing the fifth spot in the playoffs but were eliminated in the first round by the Denver Nuggets.

Frank mentioned that the team was “strongly considering” the addition of Paul as they looked to strengthen their guard rotation, which includes Harden, Beal, Bogdanović, and Kris Dunn.

Paul is expected to begin the season coming off the bench, as he prepares to contribute in whatever capacity desired by coach Tyronn Lue.

“He wants to be part of the group and we’re fortunate to have him back,” said Frank.

To safeguard Harden, who logged nearly 2,800 minutes last season at age 35, especially during an 82-game stretch, Paul’s experience will serve as insurance against possible injuries.

“Role awareness, especially in this next roster spot, will be critical,” Frank added.