How Chris Paul, Marcus Smart's Free Agency Affects Lakers, Clippers, Suns

The LA Clippers, Los Angeles Lakers, and Phoenix Suns all seem to have the same desires this offseason. All three teams were in the need of a caliber center and point guard.

The Clippers landed themselves Brook Lopez, the Lakers landed themselves Deandre Ayton, and the Phoenix Suns acquired Mark Williams. However, not every team has acquired the point guard that they desire.

BREAKING: Marcus Smart has agreed to a contract buyout with the Washington Wizards and intends to sign a two-year, $11 million deal with the Los Angeles Lakers after clearing waivers, sources tell ESPN. A return to a grand stage for the 2022 NBA Defensive Player of the Year. pic.twitter.com/8g9Bxzz11E
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 19, 2025

The Los Angeles Lakers are in the process of acquiring Marcus Smart, but the Clippers and Suns still have a void in that spot. According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Suns were actually hoping to land Smart, while the Clippers are expected to sign Chris Paul.

Lawrence Frank on the Clippers signing Chris Paul:

"He's a great player, he's a great Clipper... Of course, we're strongly, strongly considering him."
— Farbod Esnaashari (@Farbod_E) July 19, 2025

"The Suns were known to be Paul's other preferred landing spot in free agency if LA ultimately decides against a Hollywood remarriage to a player Frank described to reporters Saturday as "a great Clipper." Phoenix has been said to covet a veteran ballhandler in the wake of losing Tyus Jones to Orlando in free agency, but it is instructive to note that the Suns first went hard after Smart rather than a pure point guard," Stein said.

Now that Marcus Smart has chosen the Los Angeles Lakers, there could be a scenario where either Chris Paul or Ben Simmons signs with the Phoenix Suns. It seems like Paul may still want to be a starter, but that'll only be an option in Phoenix.

Mar 29, 2025; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Washington Wizards guard Marcus Smart (36) looks on during the first half against the Brooklyn Nets at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images | Daniel Kucin Jr.-Imagn Images

While the Clippers may not want another older and injury-prone player on their already aging team, Paul could bring great veteran leadership to their bench. The next few weeks will be interesting to see how things play out.

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