Chris Paul Rumors Reveal Updated Landing Spots for PG After Clippers Split

As the unofficial start of the NBA's trade season approaches on Dec. 15, Chris Paul's future could come into focus very soon after the Los Angeles Clippers previously announced plans to part with the legendary point guard.

According to NBA insider Marc Stein, Paul is said to be "open-minded" about potential landing spots that will allow him a proper way to wrap up his storied career.

Stein did note that the Charlotte Hornets, who were rumored to have some level of interest in Paul as a free agent over the summer, are "not expected" to pursue him now:

"A source with knowledge of the Hornets' thinking said this week that they are not expected to pursue the 40-year-old, but Paul is said to be open-minded about destinations now to go somewhere he can assemble a final chapter with a far happier ending than his second stint as a Clipper featured."

Stein and Jake Fischer reported on July 12 that Paul "rebuffed" the Hornets when they tried to meet with him because he was showing "little inclination" to play for an Eastern Conference team at the time, because the Milwaukee Bucks were also mentioned as having interest.

Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints said on Thursday that a Paul trade could materialize as soon as Dec. 15, with the Minnesota Timberwolves and Houston Rockets cited as potential landing spots.

The Clippers announced on Dec. 3 that Paul would no longer be with the team, but they would work with his camp to figure out the next steps for his career.

Paul signed a one-year, $3.6 million contract with the Clippers in July. It was supposed to be a feel-good moment for the organization by bringing back arguably the best player in franchise history near the end of his career with a chance to compete for a title.

Instead, the Clippers have been one of the biggest disappointments of the NBA season so far. Their 6-19 record is tied with the Sacramento Kings for the second-worst in the West.

Paul was barely being used by head coach Tyronn Lue before they sent him home. He averaged 14.3 minutes, 2.9 points and 3.3 assists per game in 16 appearances for Los Angeles.