NBA Trade Rumors: Why Chris Paul Is Leaning Toward the Los Angeles Clippers

The fallout from the botched trade for New Orleans Hornets star Chris Paul could have far-reaching consequences.

Not only have the Los Angeles Lakers apparently fallen out of the running for the four-time All-Star, their neighbors, the Los Angeles Clippers, look to be the front-runners.

On Sunday, ESPN's Ric Bucher reported that the Clippers were set to match the Golden State Warriors' offer for center DeAndre Jordan, at four years, $40 million.

What this means is that it gives Paul even more incentive to join the team, with an up-and-coming center and a superstar in forward Blake Griffin awaiting him.

All of a sudden, the Clippers aren't looking so bad after finishing 32-50 last season and near the bottom of the Pacific division.

And who knew it would be the Lakers who would experience more turmoil in the offseason?

On Sunday, the Lakers sent reigning Sixth Man of the Year Lamar Odom to the Dallas Mavericks of all teams, and there's no guarantee they'll land Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard, who has also expressed interest in the New Jersey Nets.

As reported by ESPN's Marc Stein, the Clippers, along with the Warriors, appear to have the best chance of landing Paul, specifically because the Hornets have their eyes on guards Eric Gordon and Stephen Curry.

Given the Warriors appear dead-set on keeping Curry, there's even more reason to suggest the Clippers are in prime position to land one of the best players in the league.

You imagine a trio of Paul, Griffin and Jordan, and there's no wonder why "playoffs" is the first word that comes to mind if they were ever to join forces.

It is worth noting that one of the holdups for the Clippers has been Paul's reluctance to guarantee he'll sign an extension.

But maybe it's worth the gamble anyway.

Alongside Griffin, Paul could be happy in no time, while the Lakers look on longingly.