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Golden State Warriors guard Chris Paul isn’t retiring, but has uncertain future

The 12-time All-Star was a key leader as a reserve, but his return to the Bay Area hinges on $30 million non-guaranteed year

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Golden State Warriors guard Chris Paul completed his 19th NBA season in disappointing fashion, two weeks shy of his 39th birthday. While the NBA’s third-oldest player is now a reserve guard and likely past his All-Star prime, don’t expect him to retire.

“That isn’t even in question,” Paul said of his future after the Warriors’ 118-94 season-ending loss to the Sacramento Kings on Tuesday night in the play-in tournament. “I just want to get back to playing.”

Where he will be playing next season is in question due to his uncertain contractual status with the Warriors.

Golden State is committed to $174 million in salary next season. The Warriors’ biggest free agent is guard Klay Thompson. Dario Šarić, a forward, is a free agent. Gary Payton II has the choice to opt into his $9.1 million salary for 2024-25 or decline the option and become a free agent. All-Star guard Stephen Curry, forward Jonathan Kuminga and guard Moses Moody are all eligible for contract extensions.

In 58 games primarily as a reserve, Paul averaged 9.2 points, a team-high 6.8 assists, 3.9 rebounds and 1.2 steals in 26.4 minutes. Paul led all NBA reserves in assists and was 12th overall in the league. The Warriors have until June 28 to decide whether to exercise his $30 million team option for next season or waive him.

While Golden State could try to re-sign the 12-time All-Star as a free agent, they run the risk of him signing elsewhere in what would be his first time entertaining free agency. By exercising Paul’s contract, they could keep him and also try to flip him in a trade. Ultimately, Warriors ownership and general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr. will decide Paul’s fate.

“I loved being there this year,” Paul said. “Obviously, once the dust settles, we will talk. I want to see what Mike and them are thinking.”