Chris Paul
The point guard who anchored the Lob City era and led the Clippers to six straight playoff appearances.
Chris Paul is a point guard who played for the Los Angeles Clippers as part of the Lob City lineup alongside Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan. He helped the team qualify for the playoffs in six consecutive seasons from 2012 to 2017 and win two consecutive division titles in 2013 and 2014, both firsts for the franchise. Despite this success, the Clippers struggled in the postseason and were frequently eliminated in the Conference Semifinals; the team reached the conference finals for the first time in 2021.
- Role
- Point Guard
- Status
- Franchise Icon / Retired from Team
- Jersey Number
- 3
- Key Achievement
- NBA All-Star (multiple selections with Clippers)
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
Alongside Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan, Paul formed the core of the Lob City lineup that captivated fans with high-flying alley-oops and aggressive defense. The team qualified for the playoffs in six consecutive seasons from 2012 to 2017, winning division titles in 2013 and 2014—both firsts for the franchise. However, the Clippers struggled in the postseason, frequently eliminated in the Conference Semifinals. The team reached the conference finals for the first time in 2021, after Paul had left the franchise.
In Their Own Story
The Crypto.com Arena hums with a nervous energy as Chris Paul dribbles up the court, the white No. 3 jersey stark against the darkened arena lights. With seconds ticking down in a tied Game 7, he signals for the isolation play, his eyes scanning the defense with predatory focus. He drives left, drawing two defenders, then flicks a no-look pass that finds DeAndre Jordan soaring toward the rim. The net snaps, the crowd erupts, and CP3 simply nods, already calculating the next possession.
Reader's Guide
Over nine seasons, he averaged over 19 points, 7 assists, and 4 rebounds per game while leading the team to multiple Western Conference Finals appearances. His leadership was instrumental in establishing the 'Lob City' identity, characterized by alley-oops and aggressive defense that made the Clippers a fan favorite. Paul earned numerous All-Star selections during his tenure and consistently ranked among the league's best in steals and assist-to-turnover ratios. The Clippers retired his jersey number 3, cementing his status as the greatest point guard in team history.
Did You Know?
- Chris Paul was part of the Lob City lineup that included Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan.
- The Clippers qualified for the playoffs in six consecutive seasons from 2012 to 2017 with Paul as point guard.
- Paul helped the Clippers win two consecutive division titles in 2013 and 2014, both firsts for the franchise.
- Despite Paul's leadership, the Clippers were frequently eliminated in the Conference Semifinals during his tenure.
- The Clippers reached the conference finals for the first time in 2021, after Paul had left the team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Chris Paul to the Los Angeles Clippers?
He was the starting point guard who defined the franchise's modern era during his tenure from 2011 to 2017. Wearing number 3, he became a fan favorite and established himself as one of the greatest players to wear the uniform.
What role did Chris Paul play on the court?
As the floor general, he orchestrated offenses and led the iconic Lob City trio alongside Blake Griffin and DeAndre Jordan. His elite passing and defense were central to the team's identity during that period.
What major achievements did he help the Clippers accomplish?
Chris Paul guided the club to six consecutive playoff appearances between 2012 and 2017. He also secured back-to-back Pacific Division titles in 2013 and 2014, marking historic firsts for the organization.
Why is Chris Paul considered a Clippers legend?
Despite postseason disappointments where the team often exited early, his leadership transformed the franchise into a competitive Western Conference contender. His jersey number remains synonymous with excellence in Los Angeles basketball history.
How did Chris Paul's time with the Clippers end?
He was traded to the Houston Rockets during the 2017 season after spending six seasons with the team. Although his time there ended abruptly, his impact on building a winning culture remains unmatched by any other player in franchise history.