Sources have revealed that the ownership and executives of the Phoenix Suns held discussions with All-Star point guard Chris Paul and his representatives on Wednesday regarding his future with the franchise. One of the possibilities discussed was the potential of waiving his contract by the NBA’s June 28 guarantee date. However, the Suns have stated that they are still considering various options for Paul’s future.
Trade Opportunities for Paul and Deandre Ayton
It has been reported that the Suns are exploring trade opportunities that involve Chris Paul and Deandre Ayton. The franchise is looking to alter its roster landscape, and a final decision on Paul’s partially guaranteed contract will be made after these trade options have been considered.
Salary Cap Space and Midlevel Exception
If Chris Paul is waived, only $15.8 million of his $30.8 million for the 2023-24 season is guaranteed unless the Suns keep him past the June 28 deadline date. The expectation is that the Suns will stretch and waive the guaranteed portion of his salary next season ($3.16M per season over the next five seasons) to create more salary cap space. This will also open up the team’s ability to use the $12.2 million taxpayer midlevel exception. Paul’s $30.8 million for 2024-25 is non-guaranteed.
Paul’s Wishes and Quicker Decisions
Chris Paul has expressed his desire to return to the Suns and play alongside his close friend Devin Booker and Kevin Durant. However, Paul and his representatives have urged the organization to make a quicker decision on his future, so he can proceed with free agency if the Suns ultimately choose to waive him.
Phoenix Suns ownership and executives are discussing various options for Chris Paul’s future with the franchise. The potential of waiving his contract has been discussed, but the Suns are also exploring trade opportunities that involve Paul and Deandre Ayton. If Paul is waived, the Suns plan to create more salary cap space and open up their ability to use the taxpayer midlevel exception. Chris Paul has expressed his desire to return to the Suns and partner with his close friend Devin Booker and Kevin Durant, but he and his representatives want the organization to make a quicker decision on his future.
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