Raptors Acquire Chris Paul in Three-Team Salary Cap Maneuver
Toronto clears luxury tax threshold in trade involving Clippers and Nets, though the veteran guard not expected to report.
Summary
- The Toronto Raptors have acquired 12-time All-Star Chris Paul from the Los Angeles Clippers as part of a three-team trade that includes the Brooklyn Nets
- To facilitate the deal, Toronto sent forward Ochai Agbaji, a 2032 second-round pick, and cash considerations to Brooklyn
- The move is primarily a financial strategy for the Raptors, allowing the franchise to dip below the NBA’s luxury tax line for the 2025–26 season
The mechanics of the trade saw Toronto ship out third-year guard Ochai Agbaji to the Brooklyn Nets alongside a 2032 second-round draft selection and cash. In exchange, the Raptors took on Chris Paul’s $3.3 million USD salary, which, combined with the departure of Agbaji’s contract, successfully brought the team under the league’s $187.9 million USD luxury tax threshold. For the Los Angeles Clippers, the move concludes a tense two-month standoff with Paul, who had been “exiled” from the team following a reported disagreement over leadership style with head coach Tyronn Lue. By moving Paul, the Clippers clear a roster spot and save approximately $7 million USD in total tax penalties.
The Nets emerge as the primary developmental beneficiary of the swap, landing the 25-year-old Agbaji. Despite a shooting slump in early 2026, Agbaji remains a promising wing prospect who fits Brooklyn’s rebuilding timeline. For the Raptors, the decision to part with Agbaji was a necessary cost of financial flexibility; the team currently sits fourth in the Eastern Conference with a 30-21 record and may look to utilize the newly opened roster spot to convert G League standouts Alijah Martin or A.J. Lawson to full NBA contracts.
As for Chris Paul, the trade provides a temporary bridge toward the final chapter of his illustrious 21-year career. Having not appeared in a game since December 1, 2025, the “Point God” is now a free agent in spirit, if not yet in name. League insiders suggest that if the Raptors are unable to flip his contract before Thursday’s 3 p.m. ET deadline, a buyout is the most likely outcome. This would allow Paul to sign with a championship contender for one final postseason run, with the New Orleans Pelicans and Dallas Mavericks frequently mentioned as potential destinations for the legendary floor general. The Toronto Raptors are scheduled to host the Chicago Bulls on Thursday night, while Chris Paul’s status remains the subject of intense speculation as the trade deadline approaches.
