The Phoenix Suns are likely moving on from their point guard Chris Paul this summer, with the team looking at either waiving or trading him away before they have to guarantee his $30.8 million team option on June 28.
NBA Trade Report has revealed that sources indicate Paul will be picking between four teams for his next destination if he is waived.
“Lakers, Clippers, Bucks, and Celtics will all pursue Chris Paul once he clears waivers.”
All four teams would be thrilled to get Paul on a mid-level contract or a minimum, as none of them have the salary space to offer him any real money. But with Paul’s extensive NBA career behind him and his desire to win a title fueling him to play longer, he will likely take a team-friendly contract with a contender this summer.
CP3 averaged 13.9 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 8.9 assists this season and 12.4 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 7.4 assists in the playoffs.
What’s The Best Destination For Chris Paul?
The Lakers are the most obvious landing spot for CP3 given his relationship with LeBron James. With their Kyrie Irving pursuit likely fizzling out, Paul could be the reliable point guard James has wanted, though they may need to keep D’Angelo Russell around as well to have some variation in the offense.
The Clippers are already looking to bring Russell Westbrook back on a team-friendly contract but the story of Paul returning to the team he once made relevant is alluring. His steady point guard play is a weapon one of the poorest half-court creation teams in the NBA could use.
The Bucks will likely have to figure out a backcourt of Jrue Holiday and Chris Paul on the floor together but it could yield rewards. Holiday struggled to be the primary facilitator during the playoffs and it’s a role CP can lighten his load with, allowing Holiday to further focus on defense. Giannis Antetokounmpo could love having a floor general like Paul on his side.
The Celtics are the best roster that Paul could go to, but they already have a crowded guard rotation with Marcus Smart, Malcolm Brogdon, and Derrick White, so Paul will likely have a smaller role on the squad unless they make changes.
