(AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)
It’s official: the Phoenix Suns are waving goodbye to the Chris Paul era. The veteran point guard, whose addition to the team led to significant milestones, such as propelling the Suns to the 2021 NBA Finals and establishing a franchise record with 64 wins the following season, has been waived by the Suns. As the team sets its sights on the future, curiosity is mounting about the next stop in Paul's career. For some insight into what might be next for Paul, we turn to BetOnline's special odds-on Chris Paul's next team.
In the duration of Chris Paul's time with the Suns, the team's performance experienced a noteworthy boost. Under Paul's leadership, Phoenix won 68% of their regular-season games, while covering 54.3% of those games (126-106-4 ATS). Only the Grizzlies (56.0%), the Knicks and the Thunder (55.0%) had superior ATS records over the past three years.
However, Paul's tenure with the Suns wasn't entirely smooth sailing, as he endured numerous injuries, particularly during the playoffs. In the 2021 NBA Playoffs, a right shoulder contusion hindered Paul's performance during the first round against the Lakers, although he managed to participate in all the games. As Paul recounted to JJ Redick on "The Old Man and the Three" podcast, the injury was so severe at times that he struggled with basic moves like handling and shooting the ball. This injury, coupled with Paul being placed in the league's health and safety protocols, which led him to miss the first two games of the Western Conference Finals, had a significant impact on Phoenix's playoff run that year.
The following year saw Paul's playoff injury struggles persist, particularly during the Suns' Western Conference Semifinal showdown against the Mavericks. He was reportedly grappling with a quad injury, as per ESPN's Marc J. Spears, although he didn't discuss it publicly. The Mavericks capitalized on this, securing a place in the Western Conference Finals. The 2023 NBA Playoffs also saw Paul suffer a groin strain in Game 2 against Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, and reports suggested that Phoenix was planning for Paul's absence in the subsequent games.
BetOnline places the Los Angeles Lakers as the frontrunner with +275 betting odds to become Paul's next destination, potentially bringing another experienced player alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. The Dallas Mavericks follow the Lakers with +400 odds, possibly envisioning Paul forming a powerful duo with their rising star Luka Doncic.
BetOnline Specials: Chris Paul's Next Team
Los Angeles Lakers +275
Dallas Mavericks +400
Boston Celtics +500
Los Angeles Clippers +575
Miami Heat +600
New Orleans Pelicans +700
Philadelphia 76ers +950
Minnesota Timberwolves +1000
Golden State Warriors +1200
New York Knicks +1200
Chicago Bulls +1400
San Antonio Spurs +2000
(Odds via BetOnline as of June 9th)
Before his departure, Paul had two years remaining on his four-year, $120 million contract. As reported by ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski, the Suns were expected to stretch and then waive Paul's contract, freeing up additional cap space over an extended period. This action aligns with the Suns' plans for the future, and it certainly helps that Paul, a 12-time All-Star and former Rookie of the Year, will be a sought-after free agent this summer despite approaching the twilight of his career.
With the Suns' decision to let Paul go, speculation around their plans for the point guard position has been brewing. Phoenix's interest in Kyrie Irving was reported to have been piqued before, during, and after the trade deadline. With the salary cap space now available following their separation from Paul, the Suns could potentially delve into the trade market to strengthen their lineup.
As the Suns usher in a new era under recently hired coach Frank Vogel, questions about the future of other players have emerged. Deandre Ayton's future, in particular, has been the subject of widespread discussion. Ayton is anticipated to be a significant presence in the trade market, and his exit, combined with Paul's, could afford the Suns substantial flexibility in their salary cap. BetOnline has also placed odds on Ayton’s next team 'if he does not stay with the Phoenix Suns'. The Dallas Mavericks are the favorites at +300 followed by the Chicago Bulls at +400.
Alongside these speculations, rumors about the Suns making a play for top free agent James Harden have been circulating. ESPN's Ramona Shelburne noted whispers in recent weeks about the Suns potentially eyeing Harden. While the common assumption is Harden choosing between Philly or Houston, the idea of Harden joining Phoenix has gained traction.
Despite the surprise surrounding Paul's departure from Phoenix, the Suns undoubtedly have grand plans. With an intent to sustain their championship contention alongside Kevin Durant and Devin Booker, these changes seem to be a necessary part of the process. The Suns' performance in the upcoming 2023-24 season will reflect the outcomes of this reshuffling. Currently, the Suns are 4th favorite to win the 2024 NBA Title according to a consensus from Pregame.com.
On the other hand, Chris Paul's unexpected departure could be a turning point in his illustrious career. His veteran leadership and playmaking skills are coveted qualities, making him an attractive addition to numerous teams. As the off-season unfolds, the basketball world will be eagerly watching the "Point God" and his next move.
Top 10 NBA Favorites in the 2023-2024 NBA Title Odds
1 Nuggets +550
2 Celtics +600
3 Bucks +750
4 Suns +900
5 Lakers 10 to 1
6 Warriors 12 to 1
7 76ers 13 to 1
8 Clippers 16 to 1
9 Heat 18 to 1
10 Mavericks 20 to 1
(Odds via a consensus from Pregame.com)
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Related: Vegas Weighs in on Los Angeles Lakers Uncertain Offseason, Vegas Weighs in on Boston Celtics Uncertain Offseason
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