The Phoenix Suns are rumored to be interested in (subscription required) Chris Paul, but the 40-year-old veteran’s return would not end well. CP3 is a future Hall of Famer. He led the Suns to the NBA Finals in 2021 and was fifth in MVP voting, but fans have seen him decline in recent years. Paul has a lengthy injury history, despite playing all 82 for the Spurs in 2025. He still wants to start, and all those factors would add up to a disaster in Phoenix.
The Suns traded Paul to Washington in 2023 to get Bradley Beal in an instantly regrettable move. The point god was flipped to Golden State before winding up in San Antonio last season. He is still an elite playmaker, but can no longer play 30 minutes per game. The Suns are loaded with wings and big men but need a steady point guard. Sadly, Paul can’t be asked to fill their starting role every night.
The 40-year-old would help Khaman Maluach develop, but it is a ton of faith to put in a guard the franchise dumped two years ago to get Beal. Things would end poorly just like most moves in the Ishbia era.
Chris Paul reunion would be a disaster for the Suns
CP3 wants to be closer to his family in Los Angeles, which leaves the Suns and Clippers vying for his services. Paul was a star for both franchises in his legendary career, but Phoenix has a larger role and a greater need for a point guard.
Paul had success flanking Devin Booker, but how would the Suns play Booker, Beal, and Jalen Green 30-plus minutes a piece with Paul on the team? Their defense would be a nightmare, but Paul may be able to supercharge their scoring. Phoenix can’t rely on winning a shootout every night, especially with Paul’s primary skill being dissecting the defense in the halfcourt.
Paul is a 25 to 28-minute per-game player at this stage of his career with no further decline. If he takes another step back, the future Hall of Famer may be just a backup point guard. The Suns don't have a starter. They want to contend in 2026, but landing a 40-year-old to be their primary creator is a massive mistake. Ishbia is no stranger to those, and counting on Paul could tank their entire season.
The Suns should sign Chris Paul if he is willing to agree to a minimum contract and come off the bench. There is zero risk there. CP3 would mentor the young talent and be impactful in a smaller role. It appears Phoenix wants him as a starter. That means hefty minutes and likely Paul missing significant time with an injury. Not ideal for a fringe playoff team hoping to qualify for the postseason.
Paul may be back with the Phoenix Suns in a few days, but that guarantees nothing. Things could quickly go sideways. The franchise has a plan, which is a positive. It may not work, but anything is worth a shot after the disaster of the last two years. Paul has helped them before, and all fans can do is hope it happens again.