Last Updated on May 4, 2025 by Mathew Diekhake
Chris Paul, widely regarded as one of the greatest point guards in NBA history, has experienced a dynamic career marked by several significant trades. Here’s a chronological overview of his trade history:
2011: Trade to the Los Angeles Clippers
In December 2011, the New Orleans Hornets agreed to trade Chris Paul to the Los Angeles Lakers in a three-team deal. However, NBA Commissioner David Stern, acting as the owner of the then-league-owned Hornets, vetoed the trade, citing “basketball reasons.” Subsequently, Paul was traded to the Los Angeles Clippers, where he played from 2011 to 2017, forming the core of the “Lob City” era alongside Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan.
2017: Trade to the Houston Rockets
In June 2017, Paul was traded to the Houston Rockets in exchange for a package including Patrick Beverley, Lou Williams, Sam Dekker, Montrezl Harrell, and a 2018 first-round pick. During his tenure with the Rockets, Paul helped the team achieve a franchise-record 65 wins in the 2017–18 season and reached the Western Conference Finals.
2019: Trade to the Oklahoma City Thunder
In July 2019, the Rockets traded Paul, along with multiple first-round picks, to the Oklahoma City Thunder in exchange for Russell Westbrook. Despite initial expectations of a rebuilding phase, Paul led the Thunder to a playoff berth in the 2019–20 season.
2020: Trade to the Phoenix Suns
In November 2020, Paul was traded to the Phoenix Suns along with Abdel Nader, in exchange for Ricky Rubio, Kelly Oubre Jr., Ty Jerome, Jalen Lecque, and a 2022 first-round pick. Paul’s leadership was instrumental in guiding the Suns to the 2021 NBA Finals, marking the franchise’s first Finals appearance since 1993.
2023: Trades to the Washington Wizards and Golden State Warriors
In June 2023, the Suns traded Paul, Landry Shamet, and multiple draft picks to the Washington Wizards for Bradley Beal, Jordan Goodwin, and Isaiah Todd. Shortly thereafter, the Wizards traded Paul to the Golden State Warriors in exchange for Jordan Poole, Patrick Baldwin Jr., Ryan Rollins, and draft picks. Paul’s stint with the Warriors was brief, as he was waived in June 2024.
2024: Signing with the San Antonio Spurs
Following his release from the Warriors, Paul signed a one-year, $11 million contract with the San Antonio Spurs in July 2024. As of the 2024–25 season, he continues to contribute his veteran experience to the Spurs’ roster.