For over two decades, LeBron James and Chris Paul have dominated the NBA in their own unique way. While King James entered the GOAT discussion by winning four chips and breaking countless individual records, CP solidified himself as one of the greatest point guards in history. But despite stacking a Hall of Fame resume while playing in the same era, the two longtime friends have never gotten a chance to join forces on the same NBA team. That could change this summer!

You see, after spending last season with the Spurs, Paul is not expected to return to San Antonio for another run. His one-year $11 million deal has expired, and there are even speculations about the 40-year-old announcing his retirement. Many believe the only way CP will continue playing is if he is with a team closer to home. Per veteran insider Marc Stein, the point guard is reportedly “determined” to play in Los Angeles.

He continued, “There is a growing belief that Paul — after starting all 82 games last season in San Antonio as a 39-year-old newcomer to the Spurs — is determined to play closer to his home base in Los Angeles if he indeed comes back for a 21st season.” There are two options in LA: the Lakers and Clippers. Of course, Clippers is a more familiar situation for Paul, as he spent six years of his prime with Steve Ballmer’s franchise. But Laker Nation wants to see CP joining forces with LeBron.

Well, they are two of the oldest active superstars in the league, and witnessing them suit up for the same team at least once before they retire would be a dream come true for many fans. Moreover, Paul could be a solid addition to the Lakers, especially at the projected price of $5.7 million.

Despite his age, health is not a concern for him, as he played a career-high 82 games last season, averaging 8.8 points and over seven assists. That’s why even the Mavs are expected to target him, with their primary guard Kyrie Irving out for months due to an ACL tear. Surely, Rob Pelinka will have his eyes on CP3 this summer. And Laker Nation is already looking forward to his arrival in LA.

Laker Nation ecstatic as Chris Paul buzz provides dream lineup amid Spurs star’s plan to prioritize family over career

Soon after Paul’s intention of playing in LA became public, the NBA World began hoping for his highly anticipated union with LeBron. Comments like “Will we finally see CP3 and LeBron play together? Only took 22 years,” and “I will love to see him playing alongside LeBron. That will be nice to watch,” began flooding in.

Many even began wondering how stacked Lakers’ lineup would be after adding Paul and some other potential trade targets, “Luka Reaves DFS Bron Clax CP3 NAW Wiggins Capela Omggggggggggg.” Yes, Paul could either be a starter alongside Luka and LeBron or he could come off the bench to lead LA’s second unit. In either case, his floor general skills could prove pivotal in their championship pursuit.

Sharing a similar sentiment, another fan said, “CP3 finally end up in LA? I think he will help more than hurt so why not. Takes some more ball handling pressure from Bron and Luka. Especially if it’s on a cheap deal.” With Paul regulating the offense, Luka and James could focus strictly on their scoring.

Of course, adding CP could also put some players’ futures in jeopardy. “Lakers Backup PG bye Gabe,” One netizen claimed, believing that Rob Pelinka might trade Gabe Vincent if Paul comes to LA. Vincent averaged merely 6.4 points this year and was not a very efficient playmaker. So trading him might not be a bad option.

Amid Paul’s reported intention to play in LA, Mavs fans seemed heartbroken. “CP isn’t gonna be a Maverick,” one wrote, now hoping that Nico Harrison finds another elite PG to fill in for an injured Kyrie.

The chances of Paul joining the Lakers are looking stronger than ever. Even the 40-year-old addressed his priorities on The Pat McAfee Show, “It’s with my family more than anything… I talk to my family about it. My son just turned 16, my daughter is 12. The past six seasons I’ve lived without them… I’ve been away from them for the last six years, so it’s a little different… I want to hoop, because I love to hoop, but at the same time I do want to be Dad.”

By joining the Lakers, Chris Paul will finally get to prioritize his family while also gunning for the championship. Seems like the perfect situation for him. Don’t you think?