Clippers Working With Chris Paul on Preferred Trade Destination; Harden Unlikely to Move
clippers-working-with-chris-paul-on-preferred-trade-destination-harden-unlikely-to-move
The Los Angeles Clippers are cooperating with Chris Paul’s representatives to identify a team the 40-year-old point guard would welcome, league sources told The Stein Line. Paul became trade-eligible on December 15, but no agreement has surfaced, and insiders say no deal is close.
Paul is on a veteran-minimum contract, making him easy to move technically. If he is included in a larger transaction before the February 5 trade deadline, the acquiring club could waive him, allowing Paul to choose his next stop in free agency. Despite years of speculation, sources insist the Lakers are not expected to pursue him. Houston could use additional backcourt depth, but first-apron restrictions have the Rockets leaning against roster changes until later in January.
Harden Status Remains Static
While Paul’s future is uncertain, the Clippers are signaling that James Harden is not on the market. Harden effectively controls his next move with an implied no-trade clause for the 2025-26 season and a $42.3 million player option for 2026-27, of which $13.3 million is guaranteed. Any team seeking Harden would need answers before his July 11 guarantee date, complicating midseason talks.
Gillespie Impresses Rival Scouts
Suns guard Collin Gillespie continues a breakout campaign that has front-office executives projecting his next contract. Opposing teams believe the 25-year-old, who becomes an unrestricted free agent in 2026, could command a deal similar to Ty Jerome’s three-year, $27 million pact with Memphis signed last summer.
Cavaliers Rejecting Core Breakup Rumors
Despite persistent calls, Cleveland maintains it is not entertaining in-season offers for either Darius Garland or center Jarrett Allen, sources said. Allen’s name remains prevalent in league chatter, but the Cavaliers prefer internal tweaks over a major roster overhaul.
Kolek’s Rise Could Shift Knicks’ Deadline Plan
The emergence of rookie guard Tyler Kolek has rival executives wondering if New York will target frontcourt help instead of a veteran point guard before the deadline. The Knicks have yet to signal a definitive direction, but Kolek’s play has broadened the club’s options.
Source: Hoops Wire
