OKC Thunder: Does Signing Chris Paul Make Sense?
Many former players to don an Oklahoma City Thunder jersey could be changing teams in the offseason.
James Harden and Russell Westbrook could both be on the move as free agents this offseason, and more recently Chris Paul could be out in Phoenix. Reports surfaced yesterday from a variety of sources that the Suns could look to waive or trade the aging veteran. But there’s also a chance he returns to Phoenix under a new restructured contract.
Immediately, fans began to throw around predictions for possible landing places for Paul. Oklahoma City fans obviously showed interest, as Paul spent two stints playing in front of the city's fans: once with New Orleans and once with the Thunder.
He was a fan favorite in OKC, so it makes sense that he’d be linked as a possible signee for the Thunder from fans around social media. But does it make sense for OKC to bring him back from a team-perspective?
The short answer is not exactly. The Thunder are a much different team than they were in 2019-20. The OKC guard spots in the starting lineup, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Lu Dort and Josh Giddey all playing vital roles, are likely cemented.
OKC has shown little interest recently in signing star veteran power in recent years, instead leaning toward younger players and developing them into bright pieces that fit the style of the Thunder. With a roster flooded with young talent at all levels and another lottery pick incoming this season, on the surface a move for Paul seems counterintuitive.
The most likely role that Paul could have for OKC to make worth of signing him would need to be similar to how the Heat used Kyle Lowry this season. An off-the-bench guard in which OKC uses him in a leadership-driven role to develop the young guards, while having a decisive bench player who can impact the game when on the court.
While that is in the realm of possibilities, it’s unlikely. Paul isn’t a cheap signing, and would likely prefer a multi-year deal with a team more fit for contention. With OKC trending up in the rebuilding of young players and those young players getting ready to be paid, money will have to remain flexible for wise investments.
Of course, it would be great to have Paul back in OKC. He’s a well-liked player in the area and brings a positive vibe to the team. But he and the Thunder are in different chapters of their books, and it doesn’t make the most sense for a reunion in 2023.
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