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

Golden State Warriors guard Chris Paul concluded his 19th NBA season in a disappointing manner, falling short of his 39th birthday by just two weeks. Despite being the league’s third-oldest player and transitioning to a role as a reserve guard, it’s unlikely he will retire.

Paul made his intentions clear following the Warriors’ 118-94 loss to the Sacramento Kings in the play-in tournament, stating, “That isn’t even in question. I just want to get back to playing.”

However, uncertainty surrounds his future due to his contractual situation with the Warriors. With Golden State already committed to $174 million in salary for the upcoming season, decisions regarding key free agents like Klay Thompson, Dario Šarić, and Gary Payton II need to be made. Additionally, discussions about contract extensions for players like Stephen Curry, Jonathan Kuminga, and Moses Moody further complicate the team’s financial outlook.

In his 58 games primarily as a reserve, Paul posted averages of 9.2 points, a team-leading 6.8 assists, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.2 steals in 26.4 minutes per game. Leading all NBA reserves in assists and ranking 12th overall in the league, Paul demonstrated his enduring value on the court. The Warriors have until June 28 to decide whether to exercise his $30 million team option for the next season or release him.

While Golden State could attempt to re-sign the 12-time All-Star in free agency, there’s a risk of him exploring other options for the first time in his career. Alternatively, the team could exercise Paul’s contract and explore trade opportunities. Ultimately, the decision regarding Paul’s future rests with Warriors ownership and general manager Mike Dunleavy Jr.

Reflecting on his time with the Warriors, Paul expressed his fondness for the team but acknowledged that discussions about his future would take place once the dust settles. He indicated his interest in hearing the plans of the team’s management moving forward.

Paul shared with Andscape his genuine enjoyment of playing alongside the Warriors’ longstanding stars, including Curry, Thompson, and forward Draymond Green. He also appeared at ease when recently spending time on Thompson’s boat in the San Francisco Bay. The proximity of San Francisco to Los Angeles, where Paul’s wife and two children reside, adds to his comfort with the Warriors.

Despite the Warriors’ impressive track record with four NBA titles since 2015, they missed the playoffs for the third time in the last five seasons. This situation was particularly unusual for Paul, who experienced missing the postseason for the first time since 2010. With 15 career postseason appearances and a stint in the 2021 NBA Finals, Paul described the current situation as “weird” and noted his early transition to family responsibilities.

Reflecting on his time with Curry, Green, and Thompson, Paul expressed gratitude for the experience, emphasizing its significance to him. However, considering the Warriors’ financial considerations, retaining Paul at a salary of $30 million may appear counterproductive. Nonetheless, coach Steve Kerr and several players, including Curry, Green, Kuminga, and rookie Brandin Podziemski, have praised Paul’s value to the team.