Chris Paul to LEAVE SUNS? Team considering parting ways with future Hall of Famer, reveals NBA Insider
Chris Paul has been a pivotal part of the Phoenix Suns since he brought his talents to Arizona.
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Chris Paul (Image via Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
Star point guard Chris Paul’s future with the Phoenix Suns seems to be in serious doubt as NBA Insider Adrian Wojnarowski reported that the team was looking to decide on his future soon. The 38-year-old was traded to the Western Conference side in 2020 and has since led them to an NBA Finals appearance and two Conference semifinals. He was a pivotal part of their franchise this season as well, but the Suns seem to be worried about paying him a hefty salary while also keeping stars like Devin Booker, Kevin Durant, and Deandre Ayton.
Whatever happens, Chris Paul is set to earn a guaranteed $15 million on his contract. CP wants to continue playing alongside Devin Booker and Kevin Durant, but the Suns will have to make a decision if they want to stick alongside the veteran point guard. Reports had emerged that the Suns had waived Chris Paul, but Wojnarowski and other sources confirmed that the player’s representatives and the franchise had not come to a conclusion on CP’s future.
The twelve-time All-Star had signed a four-year $120 million deal in 2021. As per the contract, he is set to take up over $30 million in cap space each season for the next two years. However, Chris Paul has already shown signs of decline as he faced injury problems during the 2022-23 season. If the Suns are to continue playing with him on the roster, they would have to look at some other options to waive.
What is in store for Chris Paul if the Suns waive him?
Chris Paul is one of the best point guards in NBA history. His elite court vision and leadership have helped him earn the respect of players and coaches in the league. Prior to Paul’s arrival, the Suns had not been successful in making a playoff run for ten years. However, his leadership transcended the team to new heights and made them a force to be reckoned with in the league. Having given three good seasons with the Suns, Chris Paul could be on his way out of Phoenix this offseason.
Although he is 38, Chris Paul could still attract many big teams in the league. One of his biggest strengths is his elite passing, and many teams could use his experience in their backcourt. Shams Charania had earlier reported that LA Lakers were in search of a point guard this offseason. Paul’s relationship with LeBron James could help facilitate the move, and the two could wreak havoc on opponents if given a chance to play together.
Chris Paul’s former team, the LA Clippers, could also be a side that wants him on the roster. Although they have Russell Westbrook, his return is not confirmed and if he leaves, the franchise will need someone to fill in as their point guard. CP3 is completely aware of playing in a city like LA and could provide them with the leadership they need to make a deep playoff run.
It remains to be seen if the Phoenix Suns will keep Chris Paul on their roster beyond this offseason. However, if they decide to waive him, the veteran could go to any team and make them favorites to win it all.
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Ritvik Malhotra
(1085 Articles Published)