Though the offseason is still a few months away, the New York Knicks are reportedly gathering intel on Oklahoma City Thunder point guard Chris Paul.
According to a report from The Athletic's Frank Isola, the Knicks “could make a run” at Paul this summer:
The Knicks, according to NBA sources, have been gathering intel on All Star Chris Paul and could make a run at him this summer. Paul, 34, carries a huge contract but he’s had a resurgent season in OKC & is proven leader. (He was also once represented by…Leon Rose.)
— Frank Isola (@TheFrankIsola) March 5, 2020
Paul has helped the Thunder to a surprising 38-24 overall record, which is currently good for the No. 6 spot in the Western Conference standings. His contract would be the issue, though, as Isola notes in his report. Paul is set to earn $41.4 million in 2020-21 and $44.2 million in 2021-22 — a number that few teams can manage. Despite this fact, Oklahoma City could look to move him in a blockbuster trade, with the Knicks potentially interested.
Now 34 years of age, Paul is still a productive player and an All-Star. In 61 appearances this season, the former No. 4 overall pick has racked up averages of 17.5 points on 48.8 percent shooting from the field (35.9 percent from beyond the arc), 6.7 assists, 4.9 rebounds and 1.5 steals in 31.7 minutes per outing.
Oklahoma City acquired Paul from the Houston Rockets back in July as part of a trade for Russell Westbrook.
The Knicks have struggled to find a rhythm this season, as their 19-43 overall record can attest. Paul would be a fine addition to their rotation, but can the team figure out a way to pull off a deal? Either way, there will likely be several teams interested in his services — if he is indeed available on the trade market.
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