Thunder Could Reportedly Move Chris Paul Via Sign-And-Trade In 2020 Free Agency

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Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Chris Paul has helped lead the Thunder to a respectable 33-22 record in the West this season.

After his dramatic exit from Houston, Paul’s reputation took a major hit in the eyes of the NBA community. This season, he is doing his best to mend that. As the leader of the team, both on the floor and in the locker room, he should be credited (at least partially) for their surprising run.

But is his time in Oklahoma City coming to an end?

According to Preston Ellis of Bleacher Report, the veteran point guard is still a major trade candidate for the 2020 offseason.

“At nearly 35 years old, Paul should move to a contender to try to reach that elusive NBA Finals appearance. Matching salaries remains the roadblock, and it’s a sizable one. Chris Paul will earn $41.4 million in 2020-21. Few teams can approach that number with matching and disposable contracts that won’t cripple OKC’s books for years to come. Sign-and-trades can help this summer, and that’s why the opening hours of free agency will be the most critical for Paul. Thunder general manager Sam Presti and Paul’s camp will have to get creative. Still, it seems likely they’ll find a way to leave the negotiating table satisfied.”

As good as Paul has been, his expensive contract is limiting the team’s options as far as bringing in other talents. Approaching 35-years-old, there is no telling how quickly he will decline. He’s averaging 17.4 points and a career-low 6.7 assists per game.

If you’re the Thunder, why not trade him while his value is still high?

If they can find a way to clear his contract off the books while bringing in some younger guy in the process, you can expect the Thunder to seriously consider waving goodbye to their veteran guard.

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Nico Martinez is a veteran staff writer for Fadeaway World from Brooklyn, New York. He joined Fadeaway World in 2016 and is currently residing in Columbia, South Carolina. Nico holds a degree in Sports Management from Columbia International University where he built a strong foundation in the inner workings of sports media and management. Nico's contributions have significantly enhanced the credibility and depth of Fadeaway World's content, earning him recognition across the sports journalism community. His work has been discussed in prestigious publications like Sports Illustrated. A dedicated follower of LeBron James, Nico often leads coverage on news related to the basketball star. With nearly a decade of experience in sports journalism, Nico consistently provides comprehensive and timely basketball news, engaging a wide audience of basketball enthusiasts.Nico's most desired player to interview, past or present, is Kevin Durant. He is particularly keen on asking Durant if he has any regrets about his career, especially concerning his departure from the Oklahoma City Thunder, and why he engages so much with fans on social media. 
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