It’s been more than a month since Chris Paul became trade-eligible with the Los Angeles Clippers, and while it’s clear the relationship is beyond repair, he still technically remains with the team. One way or another, he will be off the roster at some point.
It is surprising that no team has bitten on a Paul trade. He may not be the player he was in his prime, but his influence has helped teams greatly in the past. For that very reason, the Phoenix Suns should consider bringing Paul back for what could be his swan song.
Why Should the Phoenix Suns Bring Chris Paul Back?
It’s not as if this is a perfect idea that would suddenly return the Suns to title contention. The Clippers brought Paul back in part because of sentimentality, and it backfired. What has perhaps made Paul look worse is the fact that the Clippers have turned their season around since sending him home.
Complicating the possibility of a Phoenix reunion is the fact that Paul and Dillon Brooks also have a recent history.
However, Marc Stein and Jake Fischer reported last offseason that the Suns were interested in reuniting with Paul, though they lost to the Clippers in that bidding war. Now, Paul is available, and given Phoenix’s surprising rise, it appears the Suns are not willing to waste this season.
Here’s why they should bring him back.
1. He Has a Better History With the Suns Than With the Clippers
Paul helped elevate the Suns to heights not seen since the 1990s. Even though his stint with the team was relatively brief, he took them further than Steve Nash did. The Suns were getting the final years of his prime as an All-Star, and the results spoke for themselves. When he was with the team, they thrived.
Paul helped elevate the Suns to heights not seen since the 1990s. Even though his stint with the team was relatively brief, he took them further than Steve Nash did. The Suns were getting the final years of his prime as an All-Star, and the results spoke for themselves. When he was with the team, they thrived.
2. He Could Further Fortify the Team
The Suns have been one of the NBA’s more surprising stories. Many believed their situation was bleak and nearly impossible to recover from, but they have proven otherwise. Even after the talent drop-off following Kevin Durant’s departure, Phoenix has improved by adding the right supporting pieces and hiring the right coach.
Paul could further strengthen the team internally, helping breakout guard Collin Gillespie develop, even if he can no longer play at an elite level. His stint in Los Angeles has been unsuccessful, but he has a long history of improving teams through professionalism and habits. It is not a guarantee, but the Suns have shown they are legitimate contenders. Paul could reinforce that belief.
3. He Would Be Cheap
This may be the simplest justification. Paul is projected to earn about $2.3 million. Given the public fallout with the Clippers, his trade value is minimal. Phoenix could acquire him without sacrificing cap flexibility or significant assets.
Since the Clippers are simply trying to move on, the Suns could add Paul as a low-risk option. If it does not work out, they could waive him without much consequence. For what Paul could provide, the cost would be minimal.
