5 offseason moves the Phoenix Suns have to make

Chris Paul #3 of the Phoenix Suns stands on the court with Mikal Bridges #25, Devin Booker #1 and Cameron Johnson #23 during the first half of Game Seven of the Western Conference Second Round NBA Playoffs at Footprint Center on May 15, 2022 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Mavericks defeated the Suns 123-90. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images) /

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Phoenix Suns guard Chris Paul (3): Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Assess Chris Paul’s future

This was supposed to be the year Chris Paul finally won the championship. It’s Paul and Charles Barkley as two of the best players ever who never won a championship. Ironically, both spent part of their careers with the Suns.

Paul still has two more years left with an option for a third year. He will be pushing 40 by the end of this contract, so who knows what Paul will have left in the tank at the time. He’s still playing at a high level, but time is running out for him to win a championship. What does Paul want next? Is staying in Phoenix the best option for him? He does make close to $30 million next season, and the Suns have contract decisions to make. If Ayton stays, he will want a significant raise from his $12 million salary.

With Mikhail Bridges and Landry Shamet getting significant raises this season, the Suns are already pushing the luxury tax. With Ayton’s extension incoming, the price is going to hit a fever pitch. Would moving Paul be the worst thing ever? It seems preposterous on paper, but when the salary is considered and the fact he still has immense value at his age, it’s conceivable.

Obviously, it will be up to Paul himself whether he wants to move. If he wants to stay in Phoenix, the team will figure it out. If he doesn’t, they might not be heartbroken. It seems like they have to at least approach him to see if this is the best place for both team and player. It would be hard to consider a better option for Paul to win a championship. Maybe Dallas or Boston, but that’s still a stretch. Either way, it’s a question we have to ask.

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