Clippers Rumors: Paul Pierce Reportedly Extends Contract Deadline to Allow Trade

ESPN's Brian Windhorst reported Wednesday that Paul Pierce agreed to extend the deadline on his contract so that he can be involved in potential trades.

With a salary of $3.6 million, Pierce could be included in a deal despite the fact that he is retiring, which makes him an asset in terms of ensuring that salaries even out, per Windhorst.

Adrian Wojnarowski of The Vertical reported Wednesday that Chris Paul opted in to his contract with the Clippers, which allowed them to trade CP3 to the Houston Rockets for Patrick Beverley, Sam Dekker, Lou Williams and a 2018 first-round pick.

Power forward Blake Griffin is set to hit free agency, and if he leaves the Clippers as well, they could potentially go into rebuilding mode.

L.A. still has the option to reshape its roster and attempt to continue contending in the Western Conference, though, which means Pierce's contract could be of use at some point this offseason.

The 39-year-old Pierce averaged 3.2 points and 1.9 rebounds per game for the Clippers as a reserve in his 19th and final NBA campaign.

Pierce is a 10-time All-Star, a former NBA Finals MVP and a future Hall of Famer after averaging 19.7 points, 5.6 rebounds and 3.5 assists per contest during his career.