Chris Paul Insists He Wants to Remain With Suns

Phoenix has until June 28 to decide whether to waive him. Otherwise, his 2023–24 salary becomes fully guaranteed.

For the first time since it was reported by Bleacher Report’s Chris Haynes that the Suns informed Chris Paul he will be waived, the 12-time All-Star point guard addressed whether he wants to remain with the franchise. 

“Absolutely,” Paul said Thursday during an interview promoting his new book, according to The Arizona Republic. “That’s why I’m there.”

Paul has yet to be waived, and it was reported by ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski that waiving the guard is only one of the possible actions the franchise is weighing. Another option could be trading the 38-year-old or just keeping him on his current contract, but his services come with a hefty price tag. 

Paul has two years remaining on a four-year, $120 million contract he signed with Phoenix prior to the 2021-22 season. Only $15.8 million of his $30.8 million for the 2023-24 season is guaranteed if he’s waived. The full $30.8 million becomes guaranteed June 28 if Phoenix keeps keep him on the current pact. Paul’s $30.8 million for 2024-25 is not guaranteed. 

Paul is entering his 19th NBA season after averaging 13.9 points and 8.9 assists in 2022–23.