Chris Paul opens up on ‘emotional rollercoaster’ of vetoed Lakers trade
Chris Paul reflects on the emotional turmoil surrounding the vetoed trade to the Los Angeles Lakers in 2011. The trade would have paired him with Kobe Bryant, but was blocked by then-NBA commissioner David Stern. Paul eventually joined the Clippers, leading to a different legacy in the league.
- ▪Chris Paul discussed the controversial trade that was vetoed by the NBA in 2011.
- ▪At the time, the New Orleans Hornets were owned by the NBA due to financial issues.
- ▪Paul believed the trade was complete until he received a call stating it would not happen.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
NBA Chris Paul opens up on ‘emotional rollercoaster’ of vetoed Lakers trade By Ryan Anderson Published June 3, 2026, 8:00 a.m. ET See more of our coverage in your search results. Add The California Post on Google Few moments in NBA history have generated more debate than the league’s decision to block Chris Paul from joining the Los Angeles Lakers in 2011. More than a decade later, Paul is still reflecting on the emotional roller coaster that surrounded one of basketball’s biggest “what if” scenarios. 3 Chris Paul of the New Orleans Hornets (L) passes the ball as Derek Fisher of Los Angeles Lakers defends.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at California Post.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from California Post
