Chris Paul re-signs with Los Angeles Clippers

Jeff Zillgitt | USA TODAY Sports

Once the Los Angeles Clippers accomplished the difficult task (hiring Doc Rivers to coach the team), the next task (getting point guard Chris Paul to re-sign) was easier.

Paul, who became a free agent on July 1, quickly ended his free agency, agreeing to a five-year, $107 million deal with the Clippers. Paul can opt out of the final year of the contract.

On Monday morning, Paul tweeted, "I'm in!!! #CLIPPERNATION" and ensured the Clippers have their point guard for the future.

Paul, who joined the league in 2005-06 as the No. 4 pick by the New Orleans Hornets, is a six-time All-Star and has been named to the All-NBA first-team three times, including the past two seasons.

Paul led the Clippers to a franchise-record 56 victories last season and averaged 16.9 points, 9.7 assists. 3.7 rebounds and 2.4 steals in 2012-13. However, the Clippers lost in the first round of the playoffs to the Memphis Grizzlies in six games -- a disappointing end to a strong season.

That prompted a coaching change, and Rivers, after much back and forth between the Boston Celtics and Clippers, eventually replaced Vinny Del Negro. Now, expectations are much higher for 2013-14.