Will he get a ring in that one season? That’s one of the many questions echoing through NBA circles as Chris Paul’s storied journey nears its final act. As speculation builds on his next—and potentially last—destination, Paul finds himself at a rare crossroads, balancing the end of his two-decade NBA career with the deep roots of his off-court legacy. On the eve of one of the most emotional moments in recent AAU basketball, Paul’s decisions are drawing league-wide anticipation.

It’s this duality—NBA icon and grassroots mentor—that amplifies every move he makes. For those unaware, Chris Paul started Team CP3 in 2007 with just a handful of aspiring athletes; since then, his AAU program has quietly become a powerhouse, producing top NCAA recruits and earning national recognition. The program’s sustained excellence, marked this month by Team CP3 outlasting Vegas Elite and Mac Irvin Fire to clinch the second-place spot in Division B at Peach Jam, underpins Paul’s desire to shape basketball’s next generation as passionately as he’s led on the NBA hardwood. That spirit was unmistakable in Paul’s recent Instagram post, where he offered an emotional thank you to those involved with Team CP3.

“As the 2025 AAU/ EYBL season ends I just wanna say THANK YOU to all of the parents, coaches, players and staff that make it all possible. I have a deep passion for this game and most of all teaching the next generation. My family started Team CP3 in 2007 and the wins are still the best and the losses still hurt! But the love for the kids is what never changes!! To all the teams and programs out there…keep teaching and most of all KEEP STACKING DAYS!!” the caption read.

His vulnerability hit at a time when rumors of a Clippers reunion are at fever pitch—a twist that would complete a full-circle narrative in Southern California.

Just days after Team CP3’s standout showing at Riverview Park Activities Center—where they fought through a jam-packed double-game day to surge atop the Raveling Division—Chris Paul himself was trending for reasons far from youth gyms. Clippers president Lawrence Frank’s candid comments to media—“He’s a great player, he’s a great Clipper…we’re strongly, strongly considering him”—ignited fan hopes for a reunion between Paul and the team where he averaged 18.8 points and 9.8 assists across six memorable seasons.

The intrigue only deepened when Paul, now 40, liked an official Clippers post welcoming Bradley Beal, signaling possible intent.

Could there be another team eying Chris Paul while Clippers play cat-and-mouse?

While the Los Angeles Clippers continue the “will they, won’t they” with Chris Paul this offseason, you can’t help but wonder—how long before someone else swoops in? One Western Conference contender that fits the bill just might be the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Chris Paul, an 11-time All-NBA selection, put up 8.8 points, 7.4 assists, and 3.6 rebounds per game last season as the Spurs’ starting point guard. San Antonio was hanging around Play-In contention until a health scare derailed things—Victor Wembanyama’s mid-season blood clot sidelined him, and with that, the team’s momentum took a hit.

As free agency quiets down, the Timberwolves are still staring at a need they haven’t quite addressed—someone who can really handle the ball. Mike Conley isn’t getting any younger, and Rob Dillingham didn’t exactly wow in his rookie year. Meanwhile, Paul—who recently shared that this could be his final season—is heavily rumored to be eyeing a return to the Clippers, where he spent six memorable years.

He reportedly loves L.A., and a starting role could be waiting for him. But with both sides dragging their feet, it’s fair to ask—what if this reunion doesn’t happen? The Timberwolves could quietly become a smart destination. After all, if this really is Paul’s last run, wouldn’t he want a legitimate shot at a title?

Imagine Paul’s steady hands in the rotation next to Conley, mentoring Dillingham along the way. It’s a combo that could give Minnesota the boost it needs to make another big leap. Whether it comes to pass remains to be seen—but if the Clippers can’t (or won’t) commit, the door may crack open just wide enough for the Timberwolves to make a move.