Chris Paul and the Phoenix Suns are reportedly discussing plans for the 2023-24 season, and whether or not that will include the talented-but-aging standout as the point guard in Arizona.
Even though he’s currently under contract, widespread speculation has resulted in a Next Team Odds wager about Paul at DraftKings.
Paul is currently the odds-on favorite to stay with the Suns next season. If he exits, the Los Angeles Lakers are the clear favorite to land him, as Paul could team up with close friend LeBron James.
Here are the top-5 NBA teams in Chris Paul’s next team odds, per DraftKings on June 9:
- Suns -160
- Lakers +300
- Clippers +1000
- Spurs +1100
- Celtics +1100
While a report of Paul being waived was premature, it certainly seems like a legitimate option. Even if it happens, there is buzz that Paul can return to Phoenix on a lower-cost contract.
The Suns have to figure out their roster construction beyond the Big Two of Kevin Durant and Devin Booker.
Do they want to make it a Big Three with someone like James Harden or Damian Lillard, or try to build better depth after the team was woefully short of it following the KD acquisition?
Kyrie Irving is favored to re-sign with the Mavericks, which would give more credence to Paul’s move to the Lakers. However, there still seem to be multiple roads for CP3 remaining in the Valley, as he doesn’t seem to be offended by the speculation he could be released.
Paul isn’t worth his current contract but if Phoenix sends him packing it would need to figure out a replacement plan. There are myriad options, and a lot of those conversations are likely happening behind-the-scenes.
Paul used to play for the Clippers and the oddsmakers believe a reunion could happen. A move to the Celtics would make a lot of sense as Boston is a championship contender that could benefit from a pass-first point guard.
Paul seems like a natural fit with Gregg Popovich, but it might depend on how quickly the Spurs see themselves rebuilding around presumptive No. 1 overall pick Victor Wembanyama.
The Miami Heat, Dallas Mavericks, Philadelphia 76ers and Memphis Grizzlies are all seen as possibilities, which goes to show that competitive teams will likely at least consider adding Paul if he does hit the open market.
Here is the rest of the list of Next Team Odds for Chris Paul, according to DraftKings:
- Heat +1200
- Mavericks +1500
- 76ers +1500
- Grizzlies +1500
- Pelicans +2000
- Kings +2500
- Thunder +2500
- Rockets +2500
- Trail Blazers +3000
- Raptors +3500
- Wizards +3500
- Knicks +3500
- Timberwolves +3500
- Bulls +3500
- Nets +3500
- Warriors +4000
- Bucks +4000
- Nuggets +4000
- Cavaliers +4000
- Jazz +4000
- Magic +5000
- Pacers +5000
- Hawks +5000
- Hornets +5000
- Pistons +7500
