Chris Paul may be on the verge of switching jerseys once again. After spending just one year with the San Antonio Spurs, reports now suggest he could be heading elsewhere. According to veteran NBA insider Marc Stein, there’s growing anticipation that Chris Paul will swap San Antonio for the Dallas Mavericks this offseason.
Insider Scoop: Chris Paul On The Move
Paul’s stint with the Spurs proved beneficial, especially for young star Victor Wembanyama. His leadership and poise brought stability to a young team. However, the Spurs’ backcourt picture is quickly changing. The midseason acquisition of De’Aaron Fox and the emergence of Stephon Castle complicate matters. Castle, in particular, had a Rookie of the Year season and may already have a lock on a backcourt role.
Adding to the crowded backcourt, San Antonio holds the No. 2 overall pick in the upcoming draft. The team is widely expected to use it on Rutgers guard Dylan Harper. That move would only further reduce Paul’s role, which is something the 12-time All-Star likely wants to avoid.
Paul Still Has Plenty to Offer
Despite turning 40, Paul remains a productive NBA player. In 2024-25, he suited up for all 82 games with the Spurs. That achievement made him the first player ever to play a full season in his 20th NBA year. Paul averaged 8.8 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 7.4 assists per game. He also tallied 1.3 steals per game, showing he still impacts the defensive side.
Paul clearly isn’t ready to be just a bench player or just a mentor. He wants to play, contribute, and compete at a high level. While his days as a franchise centerpiece are over, he can still run an offense, defend, and bring experience to a playoff-caliber team.
His impressive résumé speaks for itself. Paul has 12 All-Star appearances, 11 All-NBA selections, and nine All-Defensive team nods. He has led the league in assists six times and in steals five times. He came closest to winning a title in 2021, but his Suns lost to the Bucks in six games.
Chris Paul Mavericks Rumors Heating Up
Stein has linked Chris Paul to the Mavericks. The Mavs are desperate for a playmaker, and Paul fits the bill. Kyrie Irving is recovering from a torn ACL and may not return until after the All-Star break. That leaves a gaping hole at point guard.
Dante Exum is set to become a free agent, and Dallas doesn’t have another reliable floor general on the roster. The team was so shorthanded late last season that Max Christie and Naji Marshall handled most of the ball-handling duties. It didn’t go well.
This situation makes the Chris Paul-Mavericks connection even more compelling. Paul’s ability to organize the offense, make smart decisions, and play solid defense could help stabilize the Mavericks. If Kyrie returns healthy mid-season, the Mavericks could have one of the smartest backcourts in the league.
A Perfect Fit for Both Sides
The Spurs seem to be moving in a new direction, and Paul doesn’t fit their timeline anymore. Meanwhile, the Mavericks need a reliable veteran guard who can start or come off the bench. It’s hard to find a better option than Paul for what Dallas needs now.
Chris Paul’s fit on the Mavericks isn’t just logical—it’s ideal. Paul wants to keep playing, and Dallas needs someone who can lead their offense until Kyrie returns. It’s a natural match that benefits both parties.
As the offseason unfolds, expect the Mavericks rumors to grow louder. With the Spurs likely drafting another guard, and the Mavericks desperate for help, all signs point to Dallas making a move.
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