NBA trade rumors: Russell Westbrook to pair up with Chris Paul at Clippers, reveals NBA analyst
The Clippers' Quest for a Dynamic Backcourt: Exploring the Potential Westbrook-Paul Alliance
Russell Westbrook to pair up with Chris Paul
In a surprising development, NBA analyst Adrian Wojnarowski has disclosed a potential alliance between Russell Westbrook and seasoned point guard Chris Paul at the LA Clippers. Although this scenario hinges on Paul’s availability through trade or buyout, the Clippers seem to be considering adding him alongside Westbrook rather than as a replacement.
Despite mutual admiration, Clippers face limitations in offering an offer to Westbrook and still pursuing Paul. Interest in Paul doesn’t deter them from re-signing Westbrook, as they are aiming for a formidable backcourt.
However, the question arises regarding the compatibility of Paul and Westbrook as a starting duo. It appears doubtful that the Clippers would choose to initiate both point guards concurrently. This signifies that one of them will have to play off the bench.
Westbrook was a bench player for the Los Angeles Lakers last season before becoming the starting player for the Clippers. Chris Paul has never played as a bench player in his entire career.
Related: Chris Paul RETIRING at LA Clippers, NBA analyst hints reunion at Lob City
LA Clippers eager to pursue Chris Paul, eyeing dynamic point guard rotation with Russell Westbrook
Nonetheless, the prospect of a point guard rotation featuring Paul and Westbrook intrigues with its dynamic and promises a significant improvement for the Clippers compared to their previous season’s lineup.
Recent reports from Law Murray of The Athletic indicate that the Clippers are indeed interested in pursuing Chris Paul. Following Paul’s trade from the Phoenix Suns to the Washington Wizards, rumors suggest that the Clippers are assessing what it would require to acquire him. However, the decision ultimately rests with Paul, who must determine if he is open to remaining in Washington.
During the Lob City era, Paul spent six seasons with the Clippers, along with Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan. Addressing the Clippers’ long-standing need for a playmaking point guard, his presence would be particularly beneficial during Kawhi Leonard and Paul George‘s tenure.
Recent years have seen Paul plagued by injuries. Averaging 13.9 points and 8.9 assists per game with the Suns last season, he has remained a valuable asset.
Chris Paul’s relationships with Westbrook, George, and Leonard impact Clippers’ pursuit
Chris Paul has a supportive relationship with Paul George, Westbrook’s former teammate. However, his interactions with Westbrook during Clippers-Suns matchups have been less friendly. Reports suggest that Leonard has a better rapport with Paul than most of his Clippers teammates. This might influence the team’s pursuit of the veteran point guard.
No matter what happens, it is challenging to picture Paul achieving satisfaction on a non-competitive team at this stage of his professional life. Particularly given the current situation of the Wizards. Therefore, it is probable that Paul will be redirected to a more competitive team in the near future. The potential pairing of Westbrook and Paul at the Clippers remains an intriguing rumor that could reshape the team’s backcourt and enhance their championship aspirations.
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Abhinav Singh Tomar
(58 Articles Published)