Almost identical to how the new era of the LA Clippers' basketball has unraveled, players who starred during 'Lob City' somehow managed to close in on the finish line, only to collapse. It was either first-round exits or blown leads that halted one of the most stacked teams in franchise history, which should have won at least one ring.
Some players from that era of Showtime are still active, such as Chris Paul and DeAndre Jordan, while others, like Blake Griffin and JJ Redick, are enjoying retirement or have found ways to remain close to the game of basketball.
After playing on teams from both conferences, Jordan finally found a home behind the best player in the world, and someone who is already an icon: Nikola Jokić. Behind Jokic, the Denver Nuggets maximized his experience, which helped win a championship in 2023. This filled the hearts of Clipper Nation with joy, as Jordan earned his title following the immense devotion he committed to LA and the city where he was drafted.
However, Paul is still left ringless. He was inches away from the Phoenix Suns and even tried with Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs, yet he still has not felt the relief of achieving his childhood dreams.
Currently, Paul is an unrestricted free agent. Many know he does not have multiple seasons left, but what is evident is that he wants to return home to Los Angeles, for his family, in a starting role while contributing to a winning team.
On the contrary, another massive update regarding his career was revealed today, and if he signs with the Clippers, they will have only one chance to succeed with their franchise legend.
The Clippers cannot fail Chris Paul and his championship aspirations if he signs with LA
Debatably, as one of the five greatest point guards to ever play, the goal for Chris Paul and fans of the LA Clippers is for him to win a ring. This will complete his NBA career and could move him up in the all-time point guard rankings.
Conversely, the Clippers will only have one season to do so, as the following will be his last. There was speculation that retirement would soon arrive, but today, the veteran guard made it official.
Chris Paul hints at this upcoming season being the last of his career 🥲 pic.twitter.com/SGULR077Yx
— Underdog (@Underdog) July 6, 2025
It would be highly disappointing if Paul reunites with the Clippers for the final season of his career, believing they have the best opportunity to attain a title, and they fail, ending his career on a sour note.