On April 21, Beijing time, according to Marc Stein of the Athletic, the Spurs have become a potential home for Paul, and if Paul leaves the Warriors, he may become Wembanyama's teammate next season.
Stein wrote: "If Paul and the Warriors go their separate ways, the San Antonio Spurs are a potential team to watch. Earlier there were rumors that the Spurs could become Paul's suitors if they decide to pursue some veterans on short-term contracts in order to provide more experienced help to Wembanyama's second season. ”
The Warriors ended up in 10th place in the West, and their 2023-24 season ended in a playoff loss to the Kings.
This result is obviously far from what many expected, and in July last year, the Warriors traded the Wizards for Poole-for-Paul, and the Warriors were aiming to win another NBA championship, so they added a veteran with a lot of playoff experience.
Paul has said he won't retire, and Warriors head coach Kerr has said he wants him back to the team, but there are still several big decisions to be made before the 39-year-old's future settles.
Paul's salary for next season is $30 million (unguaranteed), which could put the Warriors off as they have several other big contract decisions to make, including whether to try to re-sign Klay Thompson.
"I love how it feels to be there this year," Paul said. Obviously, we'll talk about it once the dust settles. I wanted to see what Mike (Dunleavy Jr.) and what they were thinking. "
If the Warriors waive Paul's contract, then he will be a free agent and can sign with any team. While he may be looking for a team that will give him a better chance of winning a championship, the Spurs could be in the ranks if they are willing to spend money to sign a more experienced player to play alongside Wembanyama.
The Spurs were also previously linked with Hawks guard Trae Young. When the NBA offseason rolls around, the Spurs are sure to be a team to watch.
Despite Wembanyama's stellar rookie season, the Spurs finished the season with a 22-60 record and missed out on the playoffs early. The San Antonio Spurs have not made the playoffs in the past five seasons. Prior to this season, Paul had not missed the playoffs since 2010. In the 2023-24 season, Paul averaged 9.2 points, 3.9 rebounds and 6.8 assists per game.