With Chris Paul on the verge of becoming an NBA Champion, chatter continues to increase surrounding his upcoming offseason.
He will have the choice to opt-out this summer, and he could angle for a multi-year, $100+ million deal.
And while the Knicks were considered contenders to pursue his services, Marc Berman New York Post explained why they might not really have a chance to bring him on after all:
“If the Knicks attempt to outbid the Suns for point guard Chris Paul this August, they are at a distinct disadvantage.
According to former Nets executive and ESPN cap guru Bobby Marks, the Suns can offer Paul a four-year deal while the Knicks can’t go past three years because of an obscure “over-38’’ bylaw in the collective bargaining agreement.
Marks predicts the Suns will net Paul with a three-year, $100 million contract if the veteran decides to opt-out of the $44 million final season of his current deal.
If Leon Rose’s Knicks attempt to match the offer, the Suns can add a fourth year.
The Knicks are at an extreme disadvantage when it comes to contract negotiations. The Suns can offer an additional year, which means they can also offer more overall money.
No doubt, having Paul’s experience and leadership would be a huge bonus for New York. But unless they catch a few brakes, and are willing to pay a hefty price, they might have to look elsewhere.
