Chris Paul will likely remain in “The Valley” for the foreseeable future.
According to Bleacher Report’s Jake Fischer, the veteran point guard is considered likely to remain with the Phoenix Suns on a three-year, $90 million deal. Fischer adds that Paul “appears all but destined to return to Phoenix.”
Paul has a $44.2 million option on his contract for next season. He could opt out and become an unrestricted free agent, then re-sign with the Suns for multiple years. He also could opt-in and sign an extension.
There had been talk around the NBA about Paul potentially joining the Los Angeles Lakers this summer, Fischer adds, but that avenue was closed when the 2020 champions acquired Russell Westbrook from the Washington Wizards.
It was also speculated last week that Paul could join Zion Williamson and the New Orleans Pelicans. The Pelicans had interest in the 11-time All-Star before the 2020-21 season and hired Willie Green, with whom Paul has a close relationship, as head coach this offseason.
Paul helped lead the Suns to the NBA Finals last season in his first year with the franchise. The 36-year-old averaged 16.4 points, 4.5 rebounds and 8.9 assists per game during the regular season while shooting 49.9% from the field and 39.5% from three-point range.
The former fourth overall pick played even better in the playoffs, averaging 19.2 points, 3.5 rebounds and 8.6 assists per game while shooting 49.7% from the field and 44.6% from deep.
With Paul likely returning to the Suns this summer, Phoenix can look elsewhere for potential upgrades in an effort to make another run to the NBA Finals next season.
