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June 3 (UPI) -- Nine-time All-Star Chris Paul is expected to decline his player option from the Los Angeles Clippers and explore free agency. He'll reportedly give "serious consideration" to the San Antonio Spurs. League sources told ESPN that Paul will consider joining the Western Conference power this summer, if he decides to leave the Clippers. Those sources added that Paul is "intrigued" by the idea of teaming up with Spurs coach Gregg Popovich and Kawhi Leonard.
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The Clippers remain the favorites to land the point guard, but the team is concerned about the Spurs' pursuit, according to ESPN. Paul is currently eligible to receive a five-year $205 million offer from the Clippers. The Spurs can offer a maximum of a little more than $152 million in a four-year deal for Paul.
The Vertical reported that the odds of the Spurs to sign Paul "aren't realistic."
League sources also told ESPN that the Clippers want to bring in Golden State Warriors executive Jerry West for an advisory role.
Clippers forward Blake Griffin can also opt out of his contract this summer en route to free agency.
Paul, 32, has never advanced past the conference semifinals since joining the Clippers in 2011. He averaged 18.1 points and 9.2 assists last season. Paul has led the NBA in assists four times and in steals six times.
The No. 4 pick in the 2005 NBA Draft made $22.8 million this season. His player option for 2017 is for $24.2 million.
The Spurs are in need of a new point guard with Tony Park aging and injured and Patty Mills set for free agency. San Antonio is expected to get a face-to-face meeting with Paul.
