Sixers rumors: Chris Paul didn't have interest in trade to Philly before Suns

The Phoenix Suns acquired Chris Paul in the offseason and it turns out the Philadelphia 76ers had interest, although CP3 didn't have much interest.

Chris Paul is enjoying his time as a member of the Phoenix Suns. However, the Philadelphia 76ers apparently made a strong push to acquire Chris Paul from the Oklahoma City Thunder during the off-season, according to Sam Amick of The Athletic. CP3 reportedly had no interest in having a reunion tour with ex-GM Daryl Morey and ex-head coach Doc Rivers in Philly.

“Ironically, sources say Philadelphia — with Morey having taken over the Sixers’ front office just weeks before Paul was sent to the Suns, and his former Clippers coach, Doc Rivers, part of their program too — made a spirited push to land Paul. The Sixers even believed there was some traction on a possible deal. The interest from Paul, however, was not mutual. With Paul targeting Phoenix as the best fit professionally and personally, and Presti in a much-improved negotiating position because of the way Paul had played, the Suns had won the CP sweepstakes.”

Paul became a hot commodity in the trade market during the 2020 off-season after a stellar 2020 campaign where he valiantly led the young Thunder to a surprising playoff run. Of course, the Phoenix Suns eventually landed the age-less Point God and are now reaping the rewards, as they hold the second-best record in the NBA.

The 35-year old hasn't been shy about expressing his desire to go to Phoenix and play alongside Devin Booker. His arrival has certainly done wonders for the Suns as they look poised to make a deep postseason push with Paul and Booker leading the way.

Nevertheless, it's still worth imagining just how the 11-time All-Star would have looked like playing with MVP candidate Joel Embiid and All-Star guard Ben Simmons. The Sixers would have likely given up a package centered around Tobias Harris, who is having a resurgence this season, along with some young prospects and other assets.

Regardless, it's all “what if” at this point. Both teams are enjoying their respective campaigns, with Paul and the Suns sitting at no. 2 in the West and the Sixers with the top record in the East.