OKC Thunder: Chris Paul trade to Suns only makes sense if return package is right

The Suns are emerging as a viable trade partner for Chris Paul but they’ll need to bring the right package to the OKC Thunder if they want to get the deal done

As the offseason is about to kick into high gear the OKC Thunder and Chris Paul are at the center of trade talk.

With a watered-down free agency group, suddenly players who might get traded have taken on a bigger share of the spotlight and have become the focus of NBA franchises looking to add relevance to a title push.

Conceivably, part of the reason for this mindset has to do with teams who experienced immediate success last season with the addition of the right veteran. The effect Jimmy Butler (Heat) and Chris Paul (OKC Thunder) had with their new teams made an impression league-wide. The Thunder came one shot short of moving onto the second round and the Heat got to the NBA Finals.

Another veteran who made a big impact was Rajon Rondo for the Lakers particularly in the postseason. His performance increased his value which may be why another Thunder guard is expected to be the first trade announcement on Monday. If the rumors are accurate, Dennis Schroder will also be exiting OKC.

Suns have to appease OKC Thunder with trade package for Chris Paul

Now that the 2020-21 season start (December 22nd) is confirmed franchises will experience a whirlwind trying to get their rosters pulled together. This coming Wednesday (18th) will feature the NBA Draft, Free Agency Moratorium will start two days later (20th) and the league is expected to lift trade restrictions this coming Monday, November 16th.

Given the circumstances, teams are actively engaged in trade talks, and Chris Paul is frequently the player named as the target. To wit, Tim Bontemps and Brian Windhorst of ESPN broke the news the Phoenix Suns are engaged with the OKC Thunder to broker a trade for Chris Paul.

Several teams have been rumored to be in the CP3 stakes including the Knicks, 76ers, Bucks, and either LA club. Josh Wilson examined four potential trade partners in a recent article but at the time Phoenix didn’t seem like a logical destination. How quickly things can change!

Of all the potential suitors this partner and destination seemingly offer up the best situation and potential package for both sides. The problem is the initial rumored offer didn’t appeal to Sam Presti so there is work to be done. That said, the talks continue with Chris Paul and his agent taking the lead with the Thunder’s blessing.