In 2011, Chris Paul was on the brink of joining the Los Angeles Lakers, a move that could have reshaped NBA history. The then-New Orleans Hornets guard was part of a proposed three-team deal that aimed to team him up with the legendary Kobe Bryant in Los Angeles. However, NBA Commissioner David Stern stepped in to veto the trade, citing concerns about its benefits for New Orleans.
Reflecting on the situation just days after announcing his retirement, Paul shared insights on the Tylil Show. He explained, "Once the lockout ended, I was traded to the Lakers.
At that time, my team was owned by the NBA because the previous owner had financial issues. The league was making decisions for us."
Paul continued, "Suddenly, the league pulled back. I was ready to play the whole year in LA, and then it went silent. Some team owners argued that, after the lockout and a new CBA, the focus was on maintaining competitive balance."
Pairing Paul with Bryant could have been a game-changer. Paul, known for his exceptional pick-and-roll skills and ability to control the game, alongside Bryant, an elite scorer with a knack for clutch moments, promised a dynamic duo. The potential for multiple championships in the early to mid-2010s was tantalizing.
Yet, Stern's decision, though controversial, was likely in the league's best interest, aiming to preserve competitive fairness. While it’s tempting to imagine what could have been, the move was a strategic choice for the NBA landscape at the time.