The New York Knicks actively explore midseason reinforcements. Landry Shamet’s injury left the team without a reliable shooter and without an experienced backup point guard. He will remain out for at least four weeks. His absence sparked internal discussions. One of the options mentioned was bringing in veteran Chris Paul. That possibility existed even before Shamet got hurt. Paul’s relationship with Leon Rose fueled the speculation.
The situation escalated after Paul and the Los Angeles Clippers suddenly split. The point guard revealed that the franchise was about to “send him home” at around 3 a.m. ET, a detail that stunned the league. The team is dealing with a rough season. The Clippers hold a disappointing 5–16 record. Paul had signed a one-year deal before the campaign began. He hoped to finish his 21-year career with a final chapter in his former home.
A surprising move that shakes the market
According to the New York Post’s reporting, the chances of a trade remain limited. In fact, Keith Smith stated that it is “very unlikely” that the Clippers will waive Paul immediately. His $3.6 million salary is guaranteed, and the team faces severe cap restrictions. The hard cap complicates any maneuver. Smith added that the Clippers will “not move on from Chris Paul until they exhaust every trade option.” The veteran becomes trade-eligible on December 15. The league is evaluating scenarios.
With Chris Paul news, resurfacing what I reported that the Knicks had discussed possibility trading for the future Hall of Famer. Paul was repped for a long time by Leon Rose. https://t.co/nE4LCr6A7W
— Stefan Bondy (@SbondyNBA) December 3, 2025
The Knicks hold a 13–7 record and sit in fourth place in the Eastern Conference. Shamet’s absence affects their rotation. The team urgently needs depth in the backcourt. Chris Paul could boost their secondary offensive creation, but his current production raises concerns. He averages 2.9 points and 3.3 assists in 14.3 minutes. His shooting numbers also dropped. Even so, his experience makes him an intriguing target.
The front office weighs risks and potential rewards. Paul continues to chase a championship before retirement. Madison Square Garden could offer the perfect stage for his final act. No decision has been made. The market is waiting. New York keeps every option open. Everything will depend on Shamet’s recovery and Paul’s real interest. Time will determine whether he ends his career in a Knicks uniform.
