Phoenix Suns: Grading Each Free Agency Move Thus Far
By Karan Jain
Phoenix Suns Offseason Move: Re-signing Chris Paul
Chris Paul’s four year, $120 million deal sent Twitter into an absolute frenzy once announced. But once the contract’s details reached the surface, it became apparent that the agreement was not as fat and juicy as initially thought, with its fourth year carrying a team option.
And for those asking the fourth year of the Chris Paul contract is a team option.
— John Gambadoro (@Gambo987) August 3, 2021
The contract’s third year does not come fully guaranteed either, presenting Phoenix with options should Paul’s age catch up to him during his new tenure.
My understanding of the Chris Paul contract is that about $15 million of it is the partial guarantee for year 3. So if he plays 2 years he gets roughly $75 million and if he plays 3 years he gets $90 million. If he does play that fourth year that is where the deal gets to $120.
— John Gambadoro (@Gambo987) August 3, 2021
So with this contract, the Suns maintain their cap flexibility ahead the 2024 season, while also retaining a player coming off two consecutive All-NBA selections. But even beyond all his accolades, it was Paul who primarily brought the Suns back from the dead last year, elevating them to the NBA Finals for the first time since 1993, consequently making him a far too important asset to let freely walk away.
Paul’s age at 36-years old still remains a factor though. CP3 will likely reach his cliff before this deal expires. This move still earns a solid grade, but will ultimately loose its luster as we move into the future, unlike with Payne’s.