The Los Angeles Lakers are not expect to pursue Los Angeles Clippers guard Chris Paul, per The Stein Line's Jake Fischer.
Paul and the Clippers parted ways earlier this month after he reportedly voiced concerns to ownership and coaches about the team's direction. He announced in late November that this would be his last season in the NBA.
“The Lakers are not considering Paul as a potential in-season addition despite the many years of Paul-to-the-Lakers speculation that have swirled leaguewide," Fischer said.
Paul has been linked with LA since a 2011 vetoed trade that would have made him a Laker. Then-commissioner David Stern, who was the New Orleans Hornets' interim owner, nixed the deal for competitive reasons.
He has a well-publicized friendship with Lakers forward LeBron James. James refused to comment on Paul's situation last week after facing the Clippers.
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Paul, a 12-time All-Star, is a lock to be a first-ballot Basketball Hall of Fame member when he becomes eligible. He is still searching for his first NBA Championship, and this season will be his final opportunity to win one as a player.
Fischer said the Clippers could keep Paul's salary if a potential deal emerges at February's trade deadline.
"League sources say that Paul might not have his next team until closer to the Feb. 5 buzzer … maybe even as part of outgoing salary in a larger Clippers trade that ultimately sets Paul up to be waived by the team acquiring him so he can choose the next (last?) Stop as a free agent."
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