New owner, a blockbuster trade, an early exit from the postseason and a new head coach.
It’s been a crazy couple weeks for the Phoenix Suns.
It seems as though the craziness is just beginning.
Chris Haynes reports the Suns will waive All-Star point guard Chris Paul, making him a free agent.
BREAKING: Phoenix Suns have notified star Chris Paul that he will be waived, making the future Hall of Famer one of the top free agents this offseason, league sources tell @NBAonTNT, @BleacherReport.
— Chris Haynes (@ChrisBHaynes) June 7, 2023
The Athletic’s Shams Charania reported the Suns are looking into waiving Paul, stretching and waiving Paul and trading Paul.
Sources: The Suns and Chris Paul are exploring multiple options, including a trade, stretching his contract, or waiving and re-signing him in free agency. Phoenix expected to discuss trades ahead of Paul’s June 28 contract date.
Story at @TheAthletic:https://t.co/5EwV2pFLZ6
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 7, 2023
Paul is owed $30.8 million this year and $30 million the following year.
The point guard averaged 32.1 minutes, 15.1 points and 9.5 assists in three seasons with the Suns.
He helped get the Suns back to the playoffs and was a steady leadership presence on both sides of the floor for Monty Williams.
Perhaps Paul’s biggest drawback in his Suns tenure was his durability. Paul had multiple ailments, specifically in the playoffs for the Suns, including a groin injury this postseason and right shoulder injury in the 2021 NBA Finals.
The Suns could also sign him to a smaller contract if he is able to clear waivers, according to Gerald Bourguet.
Chris Paul is still guaranteed $15.8M of his $30.8M salary after being waived. Still counts on their cap sheet as well. It's possible the Suns can re-sign him to a smaller contract if he clears waivers
— Gerald Bourguet (@GeraldBourguet) June 7, 2023
The Suns now have pletny of options for their point guard, and in turn their entire roster construction as the dominoes start to fall.
The craziness of the offseason continues.
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