Chris Paul is all in. That is what the point guard tweeted after he agreed to a five-year, $107 million extension to remain with the Los Angeles Clippers. Paul did not waste any time lingering with his decision. The moment July 1 came, Paul shook hands with the Clippers, securing his future for a long time in Los Angeles. While he will not officially sign his new contract until at least Wednesday, Paul said the decision to stay was easy and Doc Rivers certainly played a role.
"I'm excited about everything that's going on with the team. I talked to my wife about it because I told her it was going to be a family decision. We even let 'Little Chris' chime in on it," Paul said. "It's pretty cool to know where you're going to be and to know you're somewhere where you're wanted."
Paul was one of the most marquee free agents this summer, but opted not to schedule any visits with interested teams for when free agency began. The point guard notes he did not want to waste his time considering other teams because he knew the Clippers were the organization he wanted to play for.
The signing of Paul was only one of Los Angeles' offseason moves. The team also made a big trade for head coach Doc Rivers to join from the Boston Celtics. The team was set on getting a proven coach and they did just that. Paul admits the trade for Rivers made his decision to stay much easier.
"I'm so excited to play for him. Words can't describe it. Doc is amazing. Everything that has happened doesn't automatically translate into wins but it gives you an opportunity to win so I'm excited about the process," Paul said.
Paul could not discuss the other transactions made by the Clippers in the offseason. The team also acquired Jared Dudley, J.J. Redick and Darren Collison as well as retaining Matt Barnes and Ryan Hollins. Los Angeles is expected to hold a news conference on Wednesday after the NBA moratorium, where Paul, Rivers and others will address the media.
Multiple players reportedly took pay cuts to sign with the Clippers and be a part of team that could easily contend for an NBA Championship in the coming season. Paul is thankful for the sacrifice but is careful when discussing what all the moves mean for the future.
"It's a process," Paul said. The point guard is certainly excited for the season ahead and the top roster Los Angeles is putting together. Other offseason moves could include signing Antawn Jamison, something the Clippers have shown interest in.