Countdown: 6 days! Reports reveal Paul is set to become the top trade candidate, with playing time being a key factor in team selection.

On December 10th Beijing time, Jake Fischer brought the newest report about the Clippers and Paul as follows—

Fischer noted that the Clippers intend to work closely with Paul and his agency, CAA, to secure a new destination for the veteran guard. In six days, on December 16th Beijing time, dozens of players will become trade-eligible, and Paul is expected to be the top trade candidate at that time.

During the offseason, playing near his hometown of Los Angeles was Paul’s primary demand, which is why he ultimately chose the Clippers. Before his decision, the Bucks, Knicks, Mavericks, and Suns had all shown interest in him.

Fischer mentioned that for this future Hall of Famer, playing time has now become a more critical consideration—he pointed out that Paul’s reduced minutes with the Clippers have increasingly fueled his dissatisfaction. So far this season, Paul is averaging only 14.3 minutes per game, contributing 2.6 points and 3.3 assists.

Fischer added that beyond Paul, the Clippers are not expected to initiate any major trades immediately after the unofficial trade window opens on December 16th. He further stated that, in his view, players like Zubac, Harden, and Leonard are currently not trade candidates. The Athletic’s reporter Amick shared a similar opinion, half-jokingly saying that Clippers owner Ballmer has an “inexplicable, almost obsessive attachment” to this roster.

Fischer also said that maintaining salary cap flexibility starting from 2027 remains a top priority for the Clippers. Sources told him that before trading Powell to the Heat this summer, the Clippers never offered him a contract extension. The management had expected Powell to seek a new deal worth about $30 million per year.

The Clippers currently hold a 6-18 record, ranking second to last in the Western Conference.