On Wednesday afternoon, just hours before game 3 of the NBA finals, news broke by insider Chris Haynes that the Suns would be waiving Chris Paul. However, that report was refuted by both Shams Charania of the Athletic and Woj with ESPN.
Both Shams & Woj reported that Chris Paul wants to remain a Phoenix Sun, but Paul could still be waived or traded.
Filling the Point Guard Position
The Chicago Bulls have a clear need this offseason; finding a new starting point guard. Chris Paul could be the perfect answer for the Bulls. Paul, an eventual Hall of Famer, still possesses excellent playmaking skills that would help Chicago’s stalling offense. Despite being 38 years old, Chris Paul has still shown his ability to knock down tough mid-range shots and run an offense.
One thing Chris Paul does not possess that the Bulls need to add this offseason is 3-point shooting. While Paul can knock down the occasional 3-pointer, he is not a constant threat from beyond the arch, which is what Chicago needs to add this offseason.
The Existing Connections
The existing connection with Billy Donovan is a place to start in negotiations. Donovan coached Paul in OKC, where the Thunder overcame poor expectations and solidified themselves as a solid playoff team. The team would eventually lose to the Rockets in 7 games of the first round of the playoffs in the bubble, and Chris Paul would move on as he was dealt to the Pheonix Suns. Chris Paul also has a long-standing connection with Bulls guard Coby White. White has seen Chris Paul as his mentor, and Paul joining the Bulls could help push Coby White to the next level in his career.
Offseason Forecast
The situation with Chris Paul and the Pheonix Suns is undoubtedly one to watch, but not the only movement to expect this offseason. The Chicago Bulls have reportedly begun negotiations with Nikola Vucevic on a 3-year deal to return to the Bulls. The Portland Trailblazers are looking to deal the third overall pick in the 2023 NBA draft, and more stories are set to come following the conclusion of the NBA finals.
The Chicago Bulls could entice Portland with a deal for the third overall pick if the front office breaks the core up.
Should Chicago be willing to deal either all-star, potential packages around DeMar DeRozan or Zach LaVine, exist.
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