While Chris Paul is still not officially available in NBA free agency just yet, there are already rumblings around the league that three particular teams would have the best chances of signing him.
One of the biggest stories in the NBA over the last week has been the future of league legend Chris Paul. At 38, his best days are well behind him and his career-long battle with injuries continues to haunt him. It did again in the 2023 playoffs and that unreliability, matched with his expensive contract, has made him expendable to the Phoenix Suns.
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That is why it was reported this week that Chris Paul and the Suns have had serious conversations about his future with the team. He reportedly would like to remain with the championship contender, but he may no longer be a good fit for this team that badly needs more roster depth. That is why being released in the next couple of weeks seems highly likely.
- Chris Paul stats (’22-’23): 13.9 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 8.9 APG, 1.5 SPG, 38% 3PT
While trading Chris Paul will prove to be difficult, if he hits NBA free agency he would be one of the most coveted players on the market this summer. Yes, he still gets hurt much more than contenders would prefer, but he remains a major impact player even after 18 years in the league.
San Antonio Spurs reportedly a surprise contender for Chris Paul
Earlier this week, a top NBA insider suggested the Los Angeles Lakers and Clippers could be strong contenders since Paul’s offseason home is in LA. Well, a new report confirmed that speculation and added a surprise third team.
On Friday, The Ringer NBA insider Kevin O’Connor claimed “Sources around the NBA are whispering about three potential destinations: the Clippers, the Lakers, and the Spurs.”
The Lakers and Clippers make a lot of sense because of the location, the title potential, and both units are far better with a talented point guard. However, San Antonio is interesting because they are in a rebuild, but that is expected to be jump-started this summer after drafting top prospect Victor Wembanyama and possibly being aggressive in NBA free agency.