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[Saba Sports News] With Chris Paul making headlines for attending a former teammate’s MVP celebration, his current (and possibly soon-to-be former) San Antonio Spurs teammates are making it clear: they want him back next season.
Paul, now 40, is weighing his future — whether to retire or enter free agency. If he does return for a 20th NBA season, it’s uncertain whether he’ll stay in San Antonio. But inside the Spurs locker room, his presence has clearly left a mark.
Throughout the season, Paul often referenced former teammate Shai Gilgeous-Alexander — whom he mentored during their year together in Oklahoma City — when talking about playing alongside the young Spurs core. It’s fair to assume SGA’s opinion of Paul aligns with that of Harrison Barnes, who praised Paul’s leadership.
“Chris is probably one of my favorite teammates that I’ve ever had at any level,” Barnes told ClutchPoints. “I’ve been leading that campaign since, like, game two. Competing against him, I hated it. But being his teammate — we’ve built a unique bond.”
Victor Wembanyama didn’t need many words to share his stance on Paul returning:
“Of course.”
It’s a sentiment echoed across the roster as most contracts approach expiration on June 30. Devin Vassell, the Spurs’ second-longest tenured player at just 24, credited Paul with elevating the team’s understanding of the game.
“He’s always talking to us,” Vassell said. “If someone messes up on defense, he points it out — and you start to understand why he’s won everywhere he’s been.”
Paul wasn’t the only veteran on the team, but his voice rang loudest. Between huddles, flights, practices, and games, his leadership was a constant.
“Some of the things he’s taught us — I’ll carry that with me for the rest of my career,” Vassell added.
As the Spurs look to build around Wembanyama with a young core that includes Vassell, Stephon Castle, Keldon Johnson, and De’Aaron Fox, Paul’s mentorship remains highly valued — even by veterans like Barnes.
“I think he has so much to give the game still,” Barnes said. “Obviously he has to talk with his family, and teams will want him in a lot of roles — on or off the court — but I really hope he gives it one more year.”